Players in action on day 3 of the Ranji Trophy clash between Nagaland and Goa.
DIMAPUR, JANUARY 25 (MExN): The third day of the Ranji Trophy Plate Final between Goa and Nagaland at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium in Sovima showcased Goa’s dominance with a resolute batting performance. Resuming their second innings at 11 without loss, Goa faced an early setback, losing two quick wickets to slip to 33 for 2 in 18 overs. However, Kashyap Bakhale and Snehal Kauthankar steadied the innings, guiding their side to 95 for 3 by lunch.
In the afternoon session, the duo solidified their partnership, propelling Goa to 149 for 3 in 57 overs. By stumps, Bakhale had reached an unbeaten century, scoring 101 off 213 deliveries, while Kauthankar provided valuable support with 78 not out off 174 balls. Their unbroken partnership led Goa to a commanding position at 284 for 3, holding a substantial 284-run lead with seven wickets in hand.
Earlier in the match, Goa posted 276 runs in their first innings, securing a 60-run lead after bowling Nagaland out for 216 in 66.5 overs. Nagaho Chishi and Jagadeesha Suchith offered early breakthroughs in Goa’s second innings but were unable to dismantle the critical partnership between Bakhale and Kauthankar, leaving Nagaland with a daunting task heading into the fourth day.
CoL CK Nayudu Trophy: Saurashtra takes commanding position
Meanwhile, at the Sovima Cricket Ground, the opening day of the CoL CK Nayudu Trophy clash between Nagaland and Saurashtra saw a commanding performance from the Saurashtra batting lineup. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Saurashtra ended the day in a dominant position at 386 for 2 in 90 overs. Smitrajsinh led the charge with a spectacular 134 off 154 balls, supported by Raj Waghela’s 95 and an unbeaten 75 by Raxit Mehta. H S Kotak added stability with a steady 60 not out.
For Nagaland, Neizekho provided a breakthrough by dismissing Smitrajsinh, finishing with figures of 1 for 71 in 17 overs. Mughavi Sumi bowled economically, claiming 1 for 39 in his 11-over spell. Saurashtra will aim to extend their advantage on the second day, while Nagaland will need early wickets to regain control.