NEW DELHI: Medium-pacer Abin Matthew claimed the spotlight with his maiden five-wicket haul as Puducherry's bowlers delivered an outstanding performance, securing a commanding nine-wicket victory over hosts Delhi in their Ranji Trophy opener on Monday.
Starting the day at 126/8 in their second innings, Delhi added 19 more runs before being bowled out for 145. Matthew recorded a career-best 5/39, playing a pivotal role in dismantling Delhi's batting order.
Gaurav Yadav (3/49) and Saurabh Yadav (2/43) further contributed to Delhi's downfall, setting up an easy 51-run chase for Puducherry.
In response, Puducherry faced a minor hiccup as opener Akash Kargave (23) fell just seven runs short of the target. However, Jay Pande (21 not out) and Marimuthu Vikneshwaran (7 not out) efficiently sealed the chase in the very next over, securing victory for Puducherry.
Baroda win easy versus Odisha
Off-spinner Mahesh Pithiya played a crucial role in Baroda's victory, securing an impressive five-wicket haul to complement Shashwat Rawat's stellar century in the second innings. The hosts defeated Odisha by 147 runs in Vadodara.
Chasing a challenging target of 432, Odisha was bowled out for 284.
In just his fifth Ranji match, the talented 22-year-old Pithiya displayed remarkable skill and determination, returning figures of 5/61.
Brief Scores
At Delhi: Delhi 148 and 145; 46.4 overs (Abin Mathew 5/39, Gaurav Yadav 3/49, Saurabh Yadav 2/43). Puducherry 244 and 51/1; 13.4 overs. Puducherry won by nine wickets. Points: Puducherry 6, Delhi 0.
