Cricket

Mumbai, the undisputed kings of Indian domestic cricket, will face a formidable challenge from the gritty Vidarbha team in the much-anticipated Ranji Trophy final starting tomorrow. Led by the astute Ajinkya Rahane, Mumbai will aim to extend their dominance with a record-breaking 42nd title, while Vidarbha, the two-time champions, will be determined to upset the legacy holders.Despite a disappointing individual performance with the bat, Rahane's leadership skills have been instrumental in guiding Mumbai to their 48th summit clash. The team has overcome the absence of key players like Suryakumar Yadav, Sarfaraz Khan, and Shreyas Iyer, showcasing their resilience and depth.Mumbai's batting has not been as prolific as their opponents, but their lower-middle order has stepped up in crucial situations. Wicketkeeper-batter Hardik Tamore, Tanush Kotian, Shams Mulani, and Tushar Deshpande have all made significant contributions. The likes of Shivam Dube and Shardul Thakur have also delivered important knocks in the knockout stages.Vidarbha, on the other hand, have displayed consistent performances across all departments. Karun Nair has led the batting charge, while Dhruv Shorey, Akshay Wadkar, Atharva Taide, and Yash Rathod have all contributed heavily. Aditya Sarwate and Aditya Thakare have been the mainstays of the bowling attack, with India pacer Umesh Yadav providing crucial breakthroughs.Vidarbha's clinical approach in big games has been evident in their victories over Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh. Despite conceding a significant lead in the first innings against Madhya Pradesh, they fought back to secure a memorable win.The final promises to be a thrilling contest between two evenly matched teams. Mumbai's experience and home advantage will be tested against Vidarbha's determination and consistent performances. The battle for the Ranji Trophy crown is set to be a captivating spectacle.

Mumbai skipper Ajinkya Rahane has expressed confidence in Shreyas Iyer's ability to perform in the upcoming Ranji Trophy semifinal against Tamil Nadu, despite the batter's recent struggles. Rahane believes Iyer's experience and contributions to Mumbai make him a valuable asset to the team."We all know he is an experienced player. His contribution for Mumbai has been amazing. Whenever he stands up for Mumbai, he has done really well, so I don't think he needs any encouragement or any advice," Rahane said.Iyer will be eager to help Mumbai reach the final, especially against a Tamil Nadu team that includes his India teammate R. Sai Kishore. Kishore is delighted to have B. Sai Sudharsan and Washington Sundar back in the squad, as their experience and talent will boost the team's chances."Those two have worked hard in domestic and have gone there, they realize how important it is to show up here. We have played together for so many years and happy that they are in the team," Kishore said.Former Mumbai stalwart Sulakshan Kulkarni, who is now the Tamil Nadu head coach, believes his intimate knowledge of Mumbai cricket will give his team an advantage."I have told my squad that Mumbai cricket is on my fingertips. I know each and every (player's) positives and negatives," Kulkarni said.However, Mumbai head coach Omkar Salvi, who also learned the basics at Kulkarni's clinic, emphasized that proximity will not affect the team's focus during the semifinal."I have fond memories of playing under him in under-19. But, right now he is in the opposition dressing room. We will maintain distance for the next five days," Rahane said.