Image: Kerala are 248 runs behind Vidarbha in the final match of the Ranji Trophy / © Business Standard
With the Ranji Trophy 2025 final underway in Nagpur, Vidarbha posted a competitive first-innings total of 379 against Kerala. The innings were anchored by Danish Malewar, who scored a patient 153 off 285 balls, supported by Karun Nair’s 86 off 188 deliveries. Other notable contributions included Nachiket Bhute’s quick 32 off 38 balls and Yash Thakur’s 25. Kerala’s bowling was led by MD Nidheesh (3/61), Eden Apple Tom (3/102), and Nedumankuzhy Basil (2/60), as they bowled Vidarbha out in 123.1 overs.
In response, Kerala struggled early as Darshan Nalkande removed both Rohan Kunnummal (0) and Akshay Chandran (14) within the first three overs. However, Aditya Sarwate stabilized the innings with an unbeaten 66 off 120 balls, hitting 10 fours. He was supported by Ahammed Imran, who contributed 37 before falling to Yash Thakur. At stumps on Day 2, Kerala stood at 131/3 in 39 overs, trailing by 248 runs.
Vidarbha’s bowling attack was disciplined, with Nalkande taking 2/22 in eight overs, while Thakur picked up 1/45. Harsh Dubey was economical, conceding just 26 runs in 13 overs. Kerala will need a strong batting effort on Day 3 to close the gap and stay competitive in the final.