Mumbai, March 14 (IANS) – Mumbai ended their eight-year Ranji Title drought by beating Vidarbha by 169 runs on day 5 of the final match at Wankhede Stadium, clinching their record 42nd championship title. Led by veteran Dhawal Kulkarni, Mumbai’s bowlers sealed the victory in a fitting tribute to Kulkarni’s legacy.
Spin-bowler Tanush Kotian and fast bowler Tushar Deshpande were instrumental in Vidarbha’s downfall, dismissing them for 368 in an unprecedented chase of 538. Despite efforts from Vidarbha’s captain Akshay Wadkar and Harsh Dubey, Mumbai’s bowlers proved too strong, leaving 290 runs needed off the last day for Vidarbha.
Wadkar’s valiant 102-run knock was ended by Kotian on day five, but Vidarbha’s collapse soon after crushed their hopes. Kotian and Deshpande shone with the ball, taking crucial wickets, with Kulkarni delivering the final blow by dismissing Umesh Yadav to secure victory in his farewell match.
As Kulkarni bid farewell as a true domestic legend, Deshpande emerged as a force on the field, leading Mumbai’s bowling attack alongside Mohit Avasthi. Despite challenges like Shreyas Iyer’s absence, Mumbai showcased a blend of experience and youth to reclaim the Ranji Trophy crown, reaffirming their status as a cricketing powerhouse.
