Vidarbha put up an impressive batting display on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy semifinal clash against Mumbai in Nagpur, reaching 308/5 at stumps. Danish Malewar (79) and Dhruv Shorey (74) led the charge with well-compiled half-centuries, while Shivam Dube and Shams Mulani picked up two wickets each for Mumbai.

Shorey and Malewar Steady Vidarbha’s Innings

Dhruv Shorey began aggressively in the first hour before Mumbai’s Royston Dias struck, dismissing Atharva Taide. No.3 batter Parth Rekhade joined Shorey and built a steady partnership, bringing up his fifty. However, Mumbai found a breakthrough when Shivam Dube got Rekhade to edge one to Suryakumar Yadav at second slip.

Shorey and Malewar then stitched a crucial stand that kept Vidarbha in control. Shams Mulani eventually broke the partnership, dismissing Shorey for 74 off 109 balls.

Karun Nair Anchors Middle Order

After Shorey’s departure, Vidarbha continued to build partnerships. Karun Nair contributed significantly, adding 78 runs alongside Malewar. However, Malewar fell as Mulani’s second victim, missing out on a well-deserved century. Yash Rathod (unbeaten) and Karun Nair (40) then guided Vidarbha past the 300-run mark, ensuring a solid foundation for the remaining days.

Brief Scores:

Vidarbha 308/5 (Danish Malewar 79, Dhruv Shorey 74; Shivam Dube 2/35, Shams Mulani 2/44) vs Mumbai