Rajneesh Gurbani Haunts Kerala Again as Maharashtra Seize Ranji Trophy Advantage

Table of Contents

• Gurbani Strikes Early: Old Wounds Reopened
• Maharashtra’s Gritty 239 Sets the Stage
• Kerala in Trouble at 35/3
• Rain, Resilience, and Hope for a Turnaround
• What’s Next in This Ranji Trophy Clash?
• Sources

Gurbani Strikes Early: Old Wounds Reopened

In a rain-affected encounter at Thiruvananthapuram, veteran pacer Rajneesh Gurbani once again proved why Kerala batters dread seeing his name on the team sheet. The Maharashtra speedster tormented the hosts early, ripping through the top order to leave Kerala reeling at 35 for 3 by stumps on Day 2 of their Ranji Trophy clash.

This isn’t the first time Gurbani has haunted Kerala. Known for his ability to extract bounce and seam movement even on placid tracks, the 32-year-old brought back memories of past encounters—reminding everyone that experience often trumps conditions in India’s premier domestic tournament.

Maharashtra’s Gritty 239 Sets the Stage

Earlier in the day, Maharashtra posted a competitive total of 239 all out despite tricky overhead conditions and a probing Kerala attack led by left-arm spinner MD Nidheesh, who returned impressive figures of 5 for 49.

Batting wasn’t easy on a pitch offering subtle turn and variable bounce, but contributions from the middle order—particularly a gritty 62 from the No. 5—helped Maharashtra recover from a shaky 87 for 4. Their resilience ensured they didn’t just survive the day but built a platform for their bowlers to exploit.

Kerala in Trouble at 35/3

Gurbani wasted no time after the innings change. With the new ball still hard and the cloud cover aiding swing, he trapped opener Rohan Kunnummal lbw in his first spell. He then returned post-tea to dismiss Vishnu Vinod and Sachin Baby in quick succession—both caught behind after playing at deliveries that moved away late.

The hosts now trail by a daunting 204 runs, and with only seven wickets in hand, the pressure is mounting on Kerala’s middle order to deliver a rescue act.

Rain, Resilience, and Hope for a Turnaround

Despite the early setbacks, Kerala remains optimistic. Persistent rain has already robbed the match of valuable playing time, and more showers are forecast for the coming days. If the weather holds, the pitch is expected to flatten out—potentially aiding batters in the second innings.

“We’ve been in tougher spots,” said a Kerala team insider. “Gurbani got us today, but tomorrow is a new ball—and a new chance.”

What’s Next in This Ranji Trophy Clash?

With Maharashtra holding a strong position and Gurbani in menacing form, the onus is on Kerala’s middle order—led by Sanju Samson (if he features) or seasoned campaigners like Rohan Kunnummal—to rebuild and erase the deficit.

For Maharashtra, the goal is clear: bundle out Kerala cheaply and enforce a follow-on, or set a target that puts pressure in a shortened game. Either way, this Ranji Trophy fixture is finely poised for a gripping finish—if the skies cooperate.

Sources

• Times of India: Rajneesh Gurbani torments Kerala again in Ranji Trophy