Mumbai win Ranji Trophy to end 8-year wait for title
Mumbai ended their long wait of 8 years to lift the prestigious Ranji Trophy after defeating Vidarbha in the final played at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on March 14. Led by Ajinkya Rahane, Mumbai registered their 42nd title win in the domestic competition, highlighting their continued dominance in Indian domestic cricket
Vidarbha had won the title in the previous two seasons. Chasing a massive 538-run target on the final day, Vidarbha got off to a bright start but struggled against the opposition bowlers on a wearing pitch. Akshay Wadkar’s fighting century failed as Mumbai’s spinner Tanush Kotian and pacer Tushar Deshpande snapped crucial wickets.
Kotian was exceptional in Mumbai’s second innings, registering key dismissals as Vidarbha lost wickets regularly. Despite their strong start, the defending champions collapsed to 368, falling short by 169 runs.
The victory also marked Dhawal Kulkarni’s final appearance for Mumbai before retirement, with the seasoned pacer contributing to the team’s championship win. Mumbai captain Rahane led from the front to guide his side to their first Ranji title since 2015-16.
