In what was a riveting first session of a historic Ranji Trophy 2024-25 final, Kerala were at their best and took early control with the help of their bowlers. After opting to bowl first, Kerala bowlers did not allow Vidarbha the home advantage, ensuring that they inflicted damage in the morning session with the new ball.
MD Nidheesh made early inroads and started off the summit clash in a fine fashion, dismissing Parth Rekhade for a duck in his first over. Nidheesh continued to put Vidarbha under pressure and bagged another scalp in the form of Darshan Nalkande.
After Nidheesh was done with his job, Eden Apple Tom took the matter in his own hands and sent Dhruv Shorey packing. Before Vidarbha could realise what hit them, they were reduced to 24/3 and were reeling.
Also read: Vidarbha vs Kerala Ranji Trophy Final: Match Preview & Where To Watch Live?
Danish Malewar, Karun Nair Helps Vidarbha Recover
While it seemed that Vidarbha would have a hard time recovering, Danish Malewar and Karun Nair were not ready to go down without putting up a fight.
The duo stitched an unbeaten 57-run partnership and are still going strong. Malewar is batting on 38 and has looked comfortable during his stay at the crease so far.Â
Nair, who scored a century in the quarter-finals, aims to replicate his heroics. He has found the start and would look to convert it into a big score. The right-handed batter has scored 24 runs off 48 deliveries so far.
The upcoming session will be of utmost importance for both the teams. Although Kerala have managed to get three crucial wickets, an important partnership is building up in favour of Vidarbha. Sachin Baby and Co. would want to break it as soon as possible to stamp their authority further in this encounter.
