Ranji Trophy 2024 | Two Bihar Teams Show Up Against Mumbai In Moin-ul-Haq Stadium
Bihar vs Mumbai Ranji match happening in Moin-ul-haq stadium(X.COM)
In an unexpected twist during the opening match of the Ranji Trophy at the Moin-ul-Haq Stadium in Patna, two competing Bihar teams emerged on the field, highlighting the ongoing internal strife within the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA).
The clash between rival factions resulted in a heated exchange and a minor scuffle between officials, prompting local police intervention before the scheduled 11 am start.
The conflict revolves around the selection of teams, with the BCA president, Rakesh Tiwary, asserting that the squad chosen under his leadership was legitimate. On the other hand, the team associated with secretary Amit Kumar, acting as the patron, was not permitted to play. Tiwary defended the selection, emphasising merit and pointing out Kumar's suspension.
"That is the correct team that we selected based only on merit. You see the talent coming from Bihar. We have a cricketer, Sakib Hussain picked in the IPL, and a 12-year-old prodigy making his debut. The other team is being picked by the suspended secretary, so it can't be the real team," Tiwary stated.
Amit Kumar countered, stating,
"First things first: I won the election, and I am the official secretary of the BCA. You can't suspend a secretary. Furthermore, how does a president choose a team? Has Roger Binny, the president of the BCCI, ever been seen introducing the team? Secretary Jay Shah's signature will always be there."
Amidst this chaos, the Ranji Trophy, a premier domestic competition, might appear inconsequential to some, given India's established Test line-up. However, for seasoned players like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara, both 35 years old, the tournament holds crucial significance as they strive to revive their Test careers.
With Test spots under scrutiny, Rahane and Pujara aim to accumulate significant runs in the competition to remain in the selectors' consideration, especially with younger talents vying for national team berths.
Rahane faces an additional responsibility as he endeavours to lead Mumbai to a coveted Ranji Trophy title. The 41-time champions last clinched the trophy in the 2015-16 season and have since grappled to maintain their dominance in the domestic circuit.
As the Ranji Trophy unfolds, the focus extends beyond the established Test stars, shedding light on emerging talents and the intense competition for national team spots.
While the selectors may not make substantial changes for the upcoming home series against England, the performances in the Ranji Trophy could potentially influence future selections, making each match a crucial opportunity for players across the country.
In the ongoing match, on day 2, Bihar found themselves struggling at 89/6 in response to Mumbai's first-innings score of 251 runs.
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