NEW DELHI: Left-arm spinner Sumit Mathur delivered a spectacular debut performance, claiming a five-wicket haul as Delhi secured a seven-wicket victory over Odisha on an eventful fourth day, concluding their Ranji Trophy campaign on a positive note.
Sumit, who had already taken four wickets in the first innings, finished with a match haul of nine wickets, contributing significantly to Delhi's third win of the season.
Despite finishing third in the standings behind Madhya Pradesh and Baroda, Delhi showcased a commendable performance throughout the tournament.
A surprising loss to Puducherry in the opening match prevented them from advancing from Group D. In contrast, Odisha ended the season in seventh place in the eight-team group.
Although the match initially seemed headed for a dull draw on day three, both teams not being in contention to advance, the final day's events added excitement to the game. Delhi, motivated to enforce a result, bowled out Odisha for 133 after securing an 11-run lead in the first innings.
Sumit's stellar performance continued in the second innings, where he dismantled Odisha's top order after their top three batsmen were dismissed without scoring. Rookie pacers Himanshu Chauhan and Pranshu Vijayran also contributed with two wickets each.
Chasing a target of 123, Delhi successfully reached the mark in 20.3 overs with Ayush Badoni and Yash Dhull remaining unbeaten on 40 and 16, respectively.
In the first innings, Delhi had posted a formidable total of 451 in response to Odisha's 440, with Dhull and Jonty Sidhu both achieving centuries for the hosts.
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