Ranji Trophy final: Malewar hits century; Karun-Danish partnership taking Vidarbha to strong position

NAGPUR: Vidarbha made a solid recovery from an early setback against Kerala in the Ranji Trophy final, building a respectable total as the match progressed into the post-lunch session. At the latest update, Vidarbha stands at 217 for the loss of three wickets.

The team faced an early struggle, losing three wickets for just 24 runs. However, a resilient partnership between Danish Malewar and Karun Nair steadied the innings. Malewar reached a well-crafted century, scoring 127 runs off 222 balls, while Nair remains unbeaten on 69 off 157 deliveries.

For Kerala, MD Nidheesh was the standout bowler, claiming two wickets, while Eden Apple Tom picked up one. Kerala initially put Vidarbha under pressure, reducing them to 24/3. Parth Rekhade (0) was dismissed by Nidheesh following a successful DRS review that overturned the on-field umpire’s decision. Nidheesh struck again in the seventh over, removing Darshan Nalkande (1), caught by Basil. Later, 19-year-old Eden Apple Tom sent Dhruv Shorey (16 off 35 balls) back to the pavilion, adding to Kerala’s early dominance.