In a remarkable turn of events, Baroda stunned the defending champions Mumbai by 84 runs in the opening match of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season on Monday (October 14), marking a significant achievement as it was their first victory over Mumbai in 26 years. The last time Baroda celebrated a win against Mumbai in this prestigious tournament was back in 1998, when they chased down 186 runs to secure a four-wicket victory. In the recent encounter, Baroda displayed a commendable performance, posting scores of 290 and 185, while Mumbai struggled to match their efforts, managing totals of 214 and 177, thus falling short of the target of 262 runs set by Baroda.

Bhargav Bhatt’s match-winning performance for Baroda

The star of the match was undoubtedly left-arm spinner Bhargav Bhatt, whose exceptional bowling proved instrumental in Baroda’s triumph. Bhatt’s remarkable figures of 6 for 55 in the second innings highlighted his skill and determination as he dismantled Mumbai’s batting order at crucial moments. Already having secured four wickets for 53 runs in the first innings, he concluded the match with an impressive 10-wicket haul, earning him the Player of the Match award. Bhatt’s ability to break key partnerships was pivotal, particularly as Mumbai’s batting lineup faltered under the pressure of his accurate spin.

Mumbai’s struggles and Siddhesh Lad’s fight

Despite a promising start to their second innings, Mumbai struggled to build significant partnerships, ultimately leading to their downfall. Siddhesh Lad emerged as the lone fighter for the defending champions, scoring a commendable 59 runs off 94 balls. However, he found little support from his teammates, as Mumbai lost six wickets for just 73 runs during a crucial phase of their chase. The match reached a tense conclusion, with Lad doing his best to steer the team towards victory, but he fell to Bhatt, who claimed the last wicket to secure Baroda’s emphatic win.

Also READ: Ranji Trophy 2024/25 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Broadcast & Live Streaming Details

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Bhargav Bhatt fittingly ends the game in what could have been the last over of the 30-minute extension! Siddhesh Lad drives one back to the bowler and Mumbai are all out for 177. Baroda win by 84 runs! #BARvMUM #RanjiTrophy pic.twitter.com/nRKRpHxJdH

— Amol Karhadkar (@karhacter) October 14, 2024

Congratulations to Baroda @cricbaroda on a great start to the #RanjiTrophy campaign by beating @MumbaiCricAssoc

Well done @krunalpandya24 @mukundparmar13 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼@BCCIdomestic

— rᥲȷі𝗍🇮🇳 (@imrajitd) October 14, 2024

Baroda win outright vs Mumbai. Bhargav Bhatt with 345 first class wickets picks up 10 in the match. Never underestimate the power of experience and habit. War lost-Battle to be won by Mumbai.

— shishir hattangadi (@shishhattangadi) October 14, 2024

The Irani Cup champions lose their first match against Baroda. The batting line-up is dependent heavily on Ajinkya and Shreyas, though Lad’s runs in the 2nd innings should be a positive. Had the Shreyas-Siddhesh pair continued longer. Credits to Bhargav Bhatt, the way he’s…

— Spandan Roy (@talksports45) October 14, 2024

So Mumbai is getting cooked by Baroda after winning Irani Cup.
Shows how bad was ROI in that game.#RanjiTrophy

— Saresh Saha (@CricSar) October 14, 2024

2023-24 Ranji Trophy Champions Mumbai started their 2024-25 season with a defeat against Baroda 🫣#RanjiTrophy

— Rajesh Khilare (@Cricrajeshpk) October 14, 2024

What a Win. Baroda won by 84 Runs. Fantastic spell Bhargav Bhatt (4/53 & 6/55)[Player of the Match]. Well played Mitesh Patel 86, Atit Sheth (66 & 26), Krunal Pandya (1/47, 55) and Mahesh Pithiya (2/55, 40 & 2/68).#BDAvMUM @cricbaroda @krunalpandya24

— JaayShaan (VaidhyaJayaShankar) (@JaayShaan) October 14, 2024

Well played Baroda

Baroda, at one stage, were 90-5 in first inng and 41-6 in second inng

To win outright from that situation is commanding #RanjiTrophy

— KedarHirve (@KedarHirve) October 14, 2024

Baroda takes the revenge of the historic defeat against Mumbai in 2023-24 Ranji Trophy QF.

Mumbai with the likes of Prithvi Shaw, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Shardul Thakur, Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian lost to Baroda by 84 runs.

Bhargav Bhatt you beauty!#BDAvMUM

— Cric Top Class (@crictopclass) October 14, 2024

Krunal Pandya vs Mumbai

1st inns: 21(38) & 1/47
2nd inns: 55(144)

Baroda Won. #RanjiTrophy

— SuperGiantsArmy™ — LSG FC (@LucknowIPLCover) October 14, 2024

Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Upcoming challenges for both teams

This victory marks a significant milestone for Baroda in their Ranji Trophy campaign, setting a strong precedent for the season ahead. Krunal Pandya’s side now shifts their focus to their next match against Services in Delhi, where they will look to build on this momentum. Meanwhile, Mumbai, facing their first defeat of the season, must regroup quickly as they prepare for their upcoming clash against Maharashtra on October 18. This early setback poses challenges for the defending champions as they strive to regain their form and compete effectively in the tournament.

Also READ: Fans call for Abhimanyu Easwaran’s inclusion in BGT 2024-25 squad after stellar Ranji Trophy century

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