In a decisive Elite Group C Ranji Trophy match at the IS Bindra PCA Stadium in Mohali, Gujarat showcased a dominant performance, securing a resounding 299-run victory over hosts Punjab. This marks Punjab’s second defeat in the tournament, following a previous loss to Tripura.
Gujarat’s triumph was characterized by well-rounded displays in both batting and bowling. In the first innings, they posted a commendable score of 339, with notable contributions from Priyank Panchal, Aditya Patel, and Arzan Nagwaswalla. Punjab’s medium-pacers Siddharth Kaul and Arshdeep Singh claimed three wickets each.
Punjab managed 219 in response, courtesy of an unbeaten 79 from Mandeep Singh. Priyajeet Jadeja starred for Gujarat with a five-wicket haul (5/60). In the second innings, Gujarat declared at 290/8 before bowling out Punjab for just 111. Jadeja continued his exceptional performance, securing another fifer (5/39).
Punjab, led by Mandeep Singh, faced challenges with the absence of all-rounder Abhishek Sharma, who was dropped without a specified reason. Coach Avishkar Salvi, in his second season with the state, will need to regroup the team after this significant defeat.
In another Ranji Trophy encounter, the match between Chandigarh and Tripura ended in a draw. Chandigarh, responding to Tripura’s 356, declared their innings at 359/3. The match concluded with Tripura at 121/3, settling for a draw after setting a target of 278 runs.
