The second Ranji Trophy 2025 semi-final between Kerala and Gujarat in Ahmedabad began with a slow yet gripping day of cricket, where Gujarat’s disciplined bowling attack kept the scoring in check. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Kerala ended Day 1 at 209/4 in 90 overs, with skipper Sachin Baby (69)* leading from the front. He was well-supported by *Mohammed Azharuddeen (30)**, as the duo ensured Kerala didn’t lose control of the game.

Kerala’s Steady Start Followed by Stumbles

Winning the toss and opting to bat, Kerala got off to a solid start with openers Akshay Chandran (30) and Rohan Kunnummal (30) adding 60 runs for the first wicket. However, just as they looked set, a run-out ended Chandran’s innings. Gujarat’s bowlers then struck in quick succession, with Ravi Bishnoi trapping Kunnummal LBW and Priyajitsinh Jadeja dismissing Varun Nayanar cheaply. In no time, Kerala slipped from 60/0 to 86/3, handing the momentum to Gujarat.

Sachin Baby’s Captain’s Knock Keeps Kerala Afloat

At a critical moment, Sachin Baby and Jalaj Saxena (41) stitched together a crucial 71-run stand, bringing stability to Kerala’s innings. Just when it seemed the duo would bat deep, Saxena misjudged a delivery from Arzan Nagwaswalla, chopping it onto his stumps. With Kerala at 157/4, Gujarat aimed for further breakthroughs, but Baby held firm.

Along with Mohammed Azharuddeen, Baby guided Kerala safely to stumps, adding an unbeaten 50-run partnership to close the day on a steady note.

What to Expect on Day 2?

With Sachin Baby well-set at 69, Kerala will look to build on their total*, aiming for at least 300+ runs to put pressure on Gujarat. On the other hand, Gujarat’s bowlers will aim for early wickets to gain control of the semi-final.

Brief Scores:

Kerala 209/4 (Sachin Baby 69, Mohammed Azharuddeen 30; Ravi Bishnoi 1/33) vs Gujarat**