Mumbai end eight-year drought, clinch 42nd Ranji Trophy title

NEW DELHI: Domestic powerhouse Mumbai ended their eight-year title drought by lifting the coveted Ranji Trophy for a record-extending 42nd time in a thrilling culmination to the tournament on Thursday.

The iconic Wankhede Stadium witnessed Mumbai's triumph as they defeated a resilient Vidarbha by 169 runs on the fifth and final day of a gripping summit clash.

Scorecard: Ranji Trophy final

The fate of the final, Mumbai's 48th appearance in the prestigious tournament's history, was sealed when the hosts set a daunting target of 538 runs for the visiting team, Vidarbha.

Despite a valiant effort from Vidarbha captain Akshay Wadkar, who showcased remarkable resilience with his first century of the year, and Harsh Dubey, who contributed a vital fifty, Mumbai emerged victorious after a seesaw battle that captivated fans over the last two days.



Wadkar's magnificent century, complemented by Dubey's gritty fifty, propelled Vidarbha's resistance as they frustrated Mumbai for long periods of play. However, Mumbai's relentless bowling attack, led by Tanush Kotian's four-wicket haul and Tushar Deshpande's crucial breakthroughs, eventually dismantled Vidarbha's resilient batting lineup.

With this triumph, Mumbai add another glorious chapter to their storied cricketing legacy, while Vidarbha, despite their commendable effort, succumbed to defeat in the Ranji Trophy final for the third time after clinching two titles.

Mumbai's Ranji victory marks a triumphant return to the pinnacle of domestic cricket, ending their eight-year wait for glory with a fairytale ending for veteran cricketer Dhawal Kulkarni, who bid farewell to all forms of the game with the final wicket of the match.



Brief scores:
Mumbai: 224 & 418

Vidarbha: 105 & 368 in 134.4 overs (Atharva Taide 32, Aman Mokhade 32, Karun Nair 74, Akshay Wadkar 102; Tanush Kotian 4/95) by 169 runs.

(With inputs from PTI)