Kerala is on the verge of making history by securing its first-ever Ranji Trophy final berth. In the semi-final clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Kerala managed to take a narrow yet crucial 2-run first-innings lead over Gujarat, bringing them one step closer to the championship match.
Gujarat needed just two more runs to level Kerala’s score when Arzan Nagwaswalla attempted a big shot against Sarwate. Unfortunately for Gujarat, the ball struck short-leg fielder Salman Nizar’s helmet and ricocheted into the air, allowing Sachin Baby to complete an easy catch at slip, delivering a devastating blow to Gujarat’s hopes.
During the incident, Salman Nizar sustained an injury and was stretchered off the field as a precautionary measure. However, the Kerala team management later confirmed that his condition was not serious, and an ambulance was on standby.
Kerala in drivers seat against Gujarat in Ranji Semi-Final
After winning the toss, Kerala opted to bat first and put up a formidable total of 457, thanks to a brilliant knock of 177 by Mohammed Azharuddeen. In response, Gujarat fought hard, with captain Priyank Panchal scoring a stellar 148, while Aarya Desai and Jaymeet Patel chipped in with valuable half-centuries, bringing the team within touching distance of Kerala’s total.
However, Kerala’s spin duo, Aditya Sarwate and Jalaj Saxena, turned the tide in their team’s favor by taking a combined total of eight wickets. The team had earlier secured a thrilling one-run victory over Jammu & Kashmir to reach the semi-finals. In the other semifinal, Vidarbha are also closing in on Mumbai and may book their place for the Final, which will commence on February 26.
