Punjab Newsline,Sports:
High-voltage group matches heat up as teams battle for top spots on the points table
The Ranji Trophy witnessed intense action on Saturday, with several matches reaching decisive stages. Chandigarh registered a commanding victory over last season’s runners-up Kerala, while Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Andhra Pradesh moved closer to crucial wins. The standout performance of the day came from seasoned fast bowler Mohammed Shami, whose fiery spell turned the match decisively in his team’s favour.
Chandigarh delivered an emphatic performance, defeating Kerala by an innings and 92 runs. Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami was the star of the show, claiming five wickets and dismantling Kerala’s batting lineup with his pace and accuracy. Kerala’s batters struggled to cope with Shami’s relentless pressure, resulting in a one-sided contest. This dominant win has significantly shaken up the group standings.
Meanwhile, Chhattisgarh are on the brink of a memorable victory against Delhi. Their bowlers maintained consistent pressure, pushing Delhi onto the back foot. If Chhattisgarh continue with the same intensity on the final day, they are poised to secure a major win.
In Group A, Jharkhand have tightened their grip and are extremely close to their third victory. After posting a massive 561 runs in the first innings, Jharkhand bowled Uttar Pradesh out for just 176. The follow-on only worsened UP’s troubles, as they lost seven wickets for a mere 69 runs in the second innings. Jharkhand have already won two matches and are now firmly on course for another comprehensive victory.
In another crucial encounter, Andhra Pradesh were set a target of 259 runs to win against Vidarbha. By the end of the third day, Andhra had reached 93 for the loss of one wicket. KS Bharat was unbeaten on 27, while Shaik Rasheed impressed with a solid half-century, remaining not out on 50. Andhra Pradesh now need 166 runs on the final day. With both teams placed in the top two positions on the points table, the winner of this match will move to the number one spot.