By Mumbai’s Musheer Khan and Shreyas Iyer set a daunting target for Vidarbha in the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 final. Musheer’s resilient 136 and Iyer’s aggressive 95 helped Mumbai amass 418 in the second innings, setting Vidarbha a challenging target of 538 runs to win the championship at the Wankhede Stadium. At the end of the third day’s play, Vidarbha reached 10 for no loss.
Mumbai’s skipper Ajinkya Rahane fell early on the third day, edging a sharply turning delivery from left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey to the wicketkeeper, adding only 15 runs to his overnight score. However, Mumbai’s scoring rate increased after Rahane’s dismissal, with Musheer adopting a defensive approach while taking advantage of loose deliveries. Meanwhile, Iyer took on a more aggressive stance, especially against the spinners, hitting Dubey for a six down the ground after Lunch. He scored 95 off 111 balls, forming a crucial 158-run partnership with Musheer.
Iyer’s innings ended when he mistimed a big shot and was caught at long off. Subsequently, Mumbai lost three more wickets quickly, slipping from 332 for 3 to 357 for 7. Despite this, Mumbai’s lower order showed resilience, with Shams Mulani scoring a half-century. Mulani’s innings, combined with contributions from Tanush Kotian, Tushar Deshpande, and Dhawal Kulkarni, helped Mumbai extend their lead.
Dubey was the standout bowler for Vidarbha, claiming a fifer in his 48 overs. With Aditya Sarwate limited to bowling only seven overs due to a back issue, Vidarbha’s bowling attack faced challenges on a pitch offering assistance to spinners. Part-timers like Karun Nair, Atharva Taide, and Aman Mokade also chipped in, with Mokade dismissing Deshpande.
Despite Umesh Yadav and Aditya Thakaray’s efforts, Vidarbha’s bowling lacked penetration, allowing Musheer to capitalize and score his second First-Class century. Apart from one tough chance, Musheer’s innings was largely chanceless, ensuring Mumbai’s dominance on the day.
In summary, Mumbai’s total of 418 in the second innings has set Vidarbha a target of 538 runs to win.
