Kerala defeats Gujarat (Source:@AdhirajHJadeja,x.com)
Kerala stands on the verge of its first-ever Ranji Trophy final after securing a nerve-wracking two-run first-innings lead over Gujarat at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday. With this victory, Kerala will script history and etch its name in the history books by securing its maiden Ranji Trophy final berth.
Kerala vs Gujarat Match Recap So Far
Talking about the match, after winning the toss, Kerala opted to bat first and put up a commanding 457, courtesy of a sensational 177 from Mohammed Azharuddeen. Gujarat fought back valiantly, with Priyank Panchal’s superb 148 and vital contributions from Aarya Desai and Jaymeet Patel keeping the chase alive. However, Kerala’s spin duo of Aditya Sarwate and Jalaj Saxena turned the tide, claiming eight wickets between them to tilt the contest in their team’s favour.
Kerala On Cusp Of History
The defining moment came when Gujarat needed just two runs to match Kerala’s total. Arzan Nagwaswalla attempted to flick Sarwate’s delivery towards the leg side, but the ball struck short-leg fielder Salman Nizar’s helmet and popped into the air, allowing Sachin Baby at slip to complete a simple catch. The dismissal delivered a crushing blow to Gujarat’s hopes.
At the time of writing, Kerala lead by 28 runs in the second innings, with Rohan Kunnummal and Akshay Chandran batting at the crease.
Having said all this, Kerala has reached only its second-ever Ranji Trophy semifinal after a dramatic one-run victory over Jammu & Kashmir in the previous round. It is important to note that, Kerala now stands on the brink of history.
With just one step remaining to reach the title clash, the team carries the dreams of an entire state into the final.
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