Unbeaten centuries from Karun Nair and Dhruv Shorey guided Vidarbha to an easy win over Rajasthan, chasing down a target of 292 in 43.3 overs, thus qualifying for the semi-finals of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Karun Nair’s Incredible Form
Vidarbha’s captain Karun Nair continued his excellent form, as he struck his fourth successive century of the season. Nair’s unbeaten 122 off just 82 balls, which included 13 fours and five sixes, was his fifth century this season. With a tournament-high 664 runs at an average of 664 Nair has been dismissed only once in six innings. Nair sits firmly at the top of run charts in Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Dhruv Shorey’s Steady Knock Complements Nair’s Brilliance
Dhruv Shorey played a crucial role in the chase, anchoring the innings with 118* off 131 deliveries. He began with a 92-run opening partnership alongside Yash Rathod before joining forces with Nair for an unbroken 200-run stand for the second wicket. Shorey’s innings included ten boundaries and three sixes, showcasing his calm temperament and ability to build on a strong partnerships.
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Rajasthan’s Batting Struggles
Rajasthan lost openers Abhijeet Tomar and Manav Suthar quite early. Mahipal Lomror (45) and Deepak Hooda (33) added 71 runs for the third wicket but fell in quick succession. Shubham Garhwal top-scored with 59, while Kartik Sharma contributed with steady support. A late cameo came in by Deepak Chahar, who smashed 31 off 14 balls, helping Rajasthan reach 291.
Vidarbha Bowlers Shine, Yash Thakur Leads the Pack
Yash Thakur led Vidarbha’s bowling attack with 4 for 39 as he broke Rajasthan’s middle and lower order at the right time. Nachiket Bhute and others supported well to keep Rajasthan under 300.
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Vidarbha In Semi-Finals Against Maharashtra
The emphatic victory thus assured a semifinal with Vidarbha at hand as Maharashtra and this game would now take place at Vadodara on 16 January when Vidarbha hopes to repeat their supremacy once more.
