Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: In a thrilling finale of the Ranji Trophy Plate Final 2024-25, Goa has presented Nagaland with a formidable challenge, setting a target of 545 runs at the Nagaland Cricket Association Stadium in Sovima. The match, which began on January 23, has seen exceptional performances from Goa’s batsmen, particularly Snehal Kauthankar and Kashyap Bakhale, who have been the stars of the show.
Kauthankar’s unbeaten double century of 202 runs and Bakhale’s impressive 161 have been the cornerstone of Goa’s strong second innings total of 517/7. This declaration has left Nagaland facing an uphill battle, needing to score 545 runs in just 90 overs to secure a victory.
Goa declared their second innings on Day 3, having built a substantial total. Kauthankar’s unbeaten 202 and Bakhale’s 161 were complemented by Darshan Misal’s 67 runs, which further solidified Goa’s position. As the match enters its final day, Nagaland’s task is clear: they must score 545 runs in 90 overs, a feat that will require exceptional batting and strategic play.
At the close of Day 3, Nagaland were 33 for no loss in their second innings, indicating a cautious start but a long way to go. In the first innings, Goa had been bowled out for 276 runs, with Bakhale (79), Kauthankar (63), and Suyash Prabhudessai (56) being the top contributors. Nagaland’s Jagadeesha Suchith and Imliwali Lemtur took 4 and 3 wickets, respectively, in this innings.
Nagaland’s first innings saw them dismissed for 216 runs, with Rongsen Jonathan scoring 86 runs and Hem Chetri contributing 55. Goa’s bowling attack was led by Heramb Parab, who claimed 5 wickets, supported by Mohit Redkar (2) and Darshan Misal (1).
The match, scheduled from January 23 to 27, 2025, at the Nagaland Cricket Association Stadium, Sovima, has been a testament to the competitive spirit and skill of both teams. As Nagaland gears up for the final day, the cricket world watches with bated breath to see if they can pull off a miraculous win.
