Shillong, Feb 4: In a stunning turnaround on the third day of the Ranji Trophy plate group match at Rangpo, Sikkim, Meghalaya emerged victorious, defeating Sikkim by six wickets after initially conceding a first innings lead.
The star of the day was Aryan Borah, showcasing the best figures of his young career with an impressive 8/36. His stellar performance dismissed Sikkim for a mere 80 in their second innings.
Meghalaya successfully chased down the target, thanks to a remarkable half-century by their captain, Kishan Lyngdoh, who scored 69.
Initially, the hosts held the upper hand as Sikkim posted 284 all out in their first innings, bundling out Meghalaya for 191. At the end of the second day, Sikkim stood at 55/4, not in an ideal position but not anticipating the loss of their remaining six wickets for just 25 runs on the third day.
Aryan Borah, playing only his fifth first-class match, proved to be the game-changer. The left-arm orthodox bowler bamboozled the opposition batters, claiming four wickets in the first innings and eight in the second.
With match figures of 12/129, the 23-year-old earned the well-deserved title of Player-of-the-Match.
Despite a 93-run first innings lead, Sikkim set a challenging target of 174 for Meghalaya to win. Sikkim’s Lee Yong Lepcha, who dismissed five Meghalaya batters in their first innings, continued his impressive form with two more wickets on Sunday. Ankur removed Raj Biswa, who had scored 85 in the first innings, for 22.With Meghalaya at 54/3, Kishan Lyngdoh and Jaskirat Singh Sacheva joined forces at the crease.
Their partnership of 108 for the fourth wicket brought Meghalaya within touching distance of the target. Although Kishan fell short, being dismissed for 69, Jaskirat (44 not out) and Akash Kumar Choudhury (10 not out) ensured Meghalaya chased down the target in 50.2 overs.Meghalaya’s three victories and two defeats in the round robin stage secured their spot in the semifinals as the second-placed team in the plate group.
Details regarding the venue and opponents for the semifinals, scheduled for February 9, will be communicated in due course.
Meghalaya’s remarkable comeback in the Ranji Trophy plate group match not only showcased their resilience but also solidified their position in the semifinals.
Aryan Borah’s extraordinary performance, earning him the Player-of-the-Match title, symbolizes the team’s determination.
As they gear up for the semifinals, Meghalaya’s journey through challenges and triumphs serves as an inspiration, leaving cricket enthusiasts eagerly awaiting their next spirited display on the cricketing stage.
The team’s journey, marked by Aryan Borah’s stellar bowling and Kishan Lyngdoh’s impactful leadership, reflects the essence of sportsmanship and tenacity.
Meghalaya’s qualification for the semifinals not only adds a chapter to their cricketing legacy but also brings pride to their passionate supporters.
With a blend of emerging talents and experienced players, Meghalaya’s cricketing prowess is poised for a promising future.
As they step into the semifinals, the cricketing world anticipates more thrilling moments and spirited performances from this resilient team. In the realm of cricketing dreams, Meghalaya’s journey continues to script tales of triumph, promising an exciting chapter yet to unfold in the upcoming encounters.
