Ranji Trophy VID vs KER Finals Live | Ranji Trophy Final 2024-25: Live Score & Updates Vidarbha vs Kerala Final Live

Kerala Opt to Bowl as Vidarbha Posts 254/4 on Opening Day

The much-anticipated Ranji Trophy Elite 2024-25 final between Vidarbha and Kerala kicked off at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur, with Kerala winning the toss and electing to bowl first. At stumps on Day 1, Vidarbha posted a competitive total of 254/4 in 86 overs, with Danish Malewar leading the charge with an unbeaten 138 off 259 balls.

Vidarbha’s Steady Start and Middle-Order Resistance

Vidarbha’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing Parth Rekhade for a duck in just the second ball of the match to MD Nidheesh. The troubles continued as Darshan Nalkande fell for a single-digit score, caught behind off Nedumankuzhy Basil, leaving Vidarbha at 11/2.

Dhruv Shorey attempted to stabilize the innings with a cautious 16 before Eden Apple Tom sent him back, reducing the hosts to 24/3 within 13 overs. With Kerala bowlers keeping the pressure on, Vidarbha needed a solid partnership to recover from the early blows.

Danish Malewar’s Marathon Knock and Karun Nair’s Contribution

Danish Malewar stood tall amidst the early setbacks, playing an anchor role for Vidarbha. He stitched together a crucial 103-run partnership with skipper Karun Nair (86 off 188 balls), helping the team rebuild from a precarious situation. Malewar displayed immense patience and resilience, reaching his century in 227 balls with well-timed strokes and a strong defensive technique. His innings included 14 fours, showcasing his ability to grind through challenging phases.

Karun Nair, playing the role of the aggressor in the partnership, looked set for a well-deserved century but was run out by Rohan Kunnummal in the 82nd over. His departure at 239/4 marked the end of a crucial stand that had put Vidarbha in a commanding position by the close of play.

Yash Thakur’s Supporting Role

At stumps, Malewar remained unbeaten on 138, while Yash Thakur provided support at the other end with 5* off 13 balls. With power hitters like Yash Rathod, Akshay Wadkar, and Akshay Karnewar yet to bat, Vidarbha will look to capitalize on this strong foundation on Day 2.

Kerala’s Bowling Performance

Kerala’s bowlers had an eventful day, with MD Nidheesh leading the attack, claiming 2/33 in 18 overs with an impressive economy of 1.80. He was well supported by Eden Apple Tom (1/56), while Nedumankuzhy Basil also picked up a wicket. The experienced Jalaj Saxena bowled economically, finishing with figures of 0/46 in 14 overs, while Akshay Chandran and Aditya Sarwate also contributed to Kerala’s disciplined bowling effort.

Day 2 Outlook

With Vidarbha at 254/4, the match is evenly poised heading into Day 2. The onus will be on Malewar to convert his overnight score into a big knock, while Kerala will aim for quick wickets to restrict the hosts from posting a daunting first-innings total. With high stakes in the Ranji Trophy final, both teams will be eager to take control as the match progresses.

Match Summary (Day 1 Stumps):

• Vidarbha 1st Innings: 254/4 in 86 overs

• Danish Malewar: 138* (259)

• Karun Nair: 86 (188)

• MD Nidheesh: 2/33 (18)

• Eden Apple Tom: 1/56 (21)

Stay tuned for more updates as the Ranji Trophy final unfolds in Nagpur!