Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Baroda moved within touching distance of victory against Goa in the Col. C. K. Nayudu Trophy Under-23 four day tournament after a dramatic turnaround put them in a commanding position heading into the final day.
Goa had gained a significant advantage after bowling out Baroda for 169 in their first innings on the second day. Resuming at 164 for eight, Baroda managed to add only five runs before losing their remaining two wickets, handing Goa a substantial first innings lead of 153 runs.
However, Goa failed to capitalise on their advantage as their batting lineup suffered a major collapse in the second innings. The side was dismissed for just 91 in 45.2 overs, allowing Baroda to regain control of the contest.
Chittem Jeevankumar was Goa’s top scorer with 46 runs, while Aman Dhooper contributed 21. Shaantanu Nevgi scored nine, with Dishank Misquin also making nine. The rest of the batting lineup struggled to make an impact against a disciplined Baroda bowling attack.
Deep Patel led the charge with five wickets for 35 runs, while Hrishikesh Rakhe claimed three wickets for 39 runs. Harshit Maurya supported the effort with two wickets for 11 runs, ensuring Goa were dismissed for a modest total.
Chasing a target of 245 runs for victory, Baroda produced a confident batting display in their second innings. They reached 166 for one in 37 overs at stumps, leaving them just 79 runs short of the target with nine wickets remaining.
Nitya Pandya scored 65 runs before departing, while Bhavishya Patel remained unbeaten on 88, anchoring the chase with a strong performance. Ayush Rajgor was unbeaten on six at the close of play.
Deep Kasvankar claimed the only wicket for Goa, conceding 30 runs.
With nine wickets in hand and only 79 runs required on the final day, Baroda are firmly positioned to complete the victory, while Goa face an uphill task to prevent defeat.
