Vidarbha Seize Control in Ranji Trophy Clash After Bowling Bengal Out for 198
Despite a resilient half-century from Abhimanyu Easwaran, Bengal’s first innings folded cheaply against a fiery Vidarbha pace attack on Day 2 of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group match. Now, with Rajat Patidar unbeaten on 42, Vidarbha hold a commanding position heading into the crucial third day .
Easwaran’s Lone Stand
Opener Abhimanyu Easwaran fought valiantly for Bengal, scoring a patient 67 off 152 balls—his 22nd First-Class fifty. However, he received little support from the middle order, which crumbled under disciplined bowling from Vidarbha’s seamers .
Vidarbha’s Bowling Masterclass
The home side’s pace trio delivered in unison, exploiting early moisture and inconsistent bounce to dismantle Bengal’s batting:
- Aditya Thackeray: 4/48 – swung the new ball and cleaned up the top order.
- Samarth Singh: 3/52 – trapped key batters with inswingers.
- Akshay Karnewar: 2/39 – provided control and broke crucial partnerships.
Match Snapshot: End of Day 2
| Team | Score | Key Performer | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bengal | 198 all out | Abhimanyu Easwaran – 67 (152) | 1st innings complete |
| Vidarbha | 121/3 | Rajat Patidar – 42* (78) | Lead by 23 runs; 7 wickets in hand |
Why Patidar Is the Linchpin
Former India Test batter Rajat Patidar, fresh off his IPL exploits, is now Vidarbha’s anchor. His unbeaten 42 has already given his side a lead, and a big score on Day 3 could put Bengal under immense pressure in the remainder of the match .
Known for his aggressive strokeplay, Patidar has so far shown restraint—indicating a strategic shift to build a match-defining innings on a pitch offering assistance to seamers early on.
What’s at Stake?
This Elite Group encounter is critical for both teams’ qualification hopes in the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy. Vidarbha, the two-time champions (2017–18, 2018–19), are aiming to reclaim their dominance, while Bengal seek a strong campaign after last season’s semifinal exit.
[INTERNAL_LINK:Ranji Trophy 2024-25] | [INTERNAL_LINK:Rajat Patidar] | [INTERNAL_LINK:Abhimanyu Easwaran]