Ranji Trophy Semi Final: Bengal register massive 306-run victory over Madhya Pradesh to book a berth in Final
The Bengal cricket team has secured a spot in the Ranji Trophy final after delivering a dominant performance in the semifinals, defeating Madhya Pradesh by 306 runs at Holkar Stadium. This sets up a rematch against Saurashtra, who won the 2020 final on the basis of first innings lead. Bengal will look to redeem themselves on their home turf and make the most of this opportunity.
Bengal outshines Madhya Pradesh
Akash Deep emerged as the standout player of the semi-final, taking six wickets and playing a crucial role in securing Bengal’s place in the final. He was supported by Anustup Majumdar and Sudip Kumar Gharami, who both made substantial contributions with their bats, scoring 200 and 153 runs respectively, leading Bengal to a massive 438 in the first innings.
Pradipta Pramanik also shone in the semi-final, scoring an undefeated 60 runs in the first innings and following it up with a five-wicket haul in the second innings. With a combination of strong batting and exceptional bowling, Bengal put on a complete performance to secure their spot in the final.
Challenges for Madhya Pradesh
In the final day of the semi-final, Bengal posted 279 runs in their second innings, setting a target of 548 for Madhya Pradesh. Despite a promising start from openers Yash Dubey and Himanshu Mantri, who both scored runs in the 30s, Bengal’s bowlers took control of the match and reduced Madhya Pradesh to 67/2.
Rajat Patidar and Shubham Sharma attempted to keep their team in the game with their sensible batting, but the target proved too steep to chase on a challenging final day pitch. Young left-arm spinner Pramanik was particularly effective, dismissing several key players and taking a five-wicket haul. In the end, Madhya Pradesh were unable to reach the target, securing Bengal’s place in the final.
Team Focus and Determined Approach
Bengal’s head coach, Laxmi Ratan Shukla, praised his team’s efforts and stated that they have not yet achieved anything great to celebrate. Despite the excitement of reaching the final, the team remains focused and motivated to win the Ranji Trophy.
Captain Manoj Tiwary echoes these thoughts and states that the dressing room atmosphere is positive, with the players playing hard and supporting each other. Winning the Ranji Trophy would be a great accomplishment and the team is determined to raise the Cricket Association of Bengal’s flag high.
Overall, Bengal’s dominant performance in the semi-final sets up an exciting and closely contested final against Saurashtra. With both teams playing well and focused on their goal, the final promises to be a thrilling display of top-level cricket.
