While some Indian players are busy with the home series against England, others are showcasing their skills in the domestic circuit.
The Ranji Trophy clash between Saurashtra and Delhi drew attention as three Indian international stars featured in the game.
Rishabh Pant returned for Delhi, while Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara represented Saurashtra. The match was particularly hyped, with Jadeja and Pant playing their first Ranji game after a demanding international season, including the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where India lost 3-1.
Ravindra Jadeja made an impactful comeback, taking a five-wicket haul in the first innings. However, Rishabh Pant had a tough outing, dismissed for just one run by Dharmendrasinh Jadeja.
Despite his performance, Pant’s star power remained undiminished as fans flocked around him at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. One fan even touched his feet, highlighting the immense respect and admiration Pant commands as one of India’s premier match-winners.
As for the match, Delhi was bowled out for 188 runs in their first innings, with captain Ayush Badoni leading the charge.
Badoni scored a fighting 60 off 78 balls, including five fours and two sixes, while the rest of the batting lineup struggled to make an impact.
In response, Saurashtra ended Day 1 at 163/5, trailing by 24 runs. Harvik Desai starred with a brilliant 93 off 120 balls, while Arpit Vasavada remained unbeaten at the crease, keeping Saurashtra in the hunt. The match promises to deliver more action in the coming days.