Pune, Feb 12: Kerala displayed remarkable resilience in their batting to secure a draw against Jammu and Kashmir, thereby advancing to the Ranji Trophy semifinals with a narrow 1-run lead from the first innings. On Wednesday, they recorded a score of 295 for six in their second innings after starting the day at 100 for two.
The standout performers were Salman Nizar, who remained unbeaten on 44 off 162 balls, and Mohammed Azharuddeen, who scored 67 not out from 118 balls, striking nine fours and two sixes. Their unbroken 115-run partnership for the seventh wicket spanned nearly 43 overs, proving crucial in seeing out the day’s play.
Kerala’s next challenge will see them face former champions Gujarat in the semifinals starting February 17. This marks Kerala’s second appearance in the Ranji Trophy final four since the 2018-19 season, where they were defeated by eventual champions Vidarbha by an innings and 11 runs in Wayanad.
“We had faith in ourselves, taking it ten runs at a time. The J&K bowlers certainly made it challenging. We followed a similar strategy as in the first innings,” Nizar stated during the post-match presentation. He had contributed significantly in Kerala’s first innings with an unbeaten 112 and formed an important 81-run partnership with Basil Thampi, ensuring a crucial 1-run lead.
J&K’s captain, Paras Dogra, expressed pride in his team’s efforts, saying, “We gave it our all, but unfortunately, we fell short. Credit to the Kerala batsmen. We are proud of our journey, and we hope to achieve more in the future.”
Additionally, Jammu and Kashmir’s left-arm spinner Abid Mushtaq was given a warning by the on-field umpires for a suspected illegal bowling action, as one of his deliveries was judged a no-ball.
Kerala also owes gratitude to skipper Sachin Baby and Akshay Chandran for their valuable contributions, each scoring 48 runs and putting together a 58-run third-wicket partnership, which occupied nearly 44 overs to withstand J&K’s bowling attack.
Brief scores: Jammu & Kashmir: 280 and 399/9 declared drew with Kerala: 281 and 295/6 in 126 overs (Salman Nizar 44 not out, Mohammed Azharuddeen 67 not out, Sachin Baby 48, Akshay Chandran 48; Sahil Lotra 2/50). (Agencies)
Leave a Reply