Andhra Pradesh delivered a dominant performance in the Ranji Trophy on Friday, defeating Vidarbha by 8 wickets while chasing 259 runs for victory. Sheikh Rashid’s unbeaten 132-run masterpiece, laced with 21 boundaries, proved decisive in securing the points.
Early trouble struck when Andhra lost opener Abhishek Reddy for 11 at 15 runs. Enter S Bharat, who along with Rashid forged a resilient 99-run partnership. Bharat’s dismissal at 43 didn’t derail the chase.
Ricky Bhui then joined Rashid for an unbeaten 145-run stand that sealed the deal. Rashid’s 132 came off 144 deliveries, showcasing impeccable timing and aggression. Bhui’s 64 not out, featuring 7 fours and 2 sixes, added the finishing touches.
Only Nachiket Bhute troubled Andhra, claiming both scalps. Looking back, Vidarbha’s first innings 295 was built on Yash Rathod’s century. Andhra managed 228 in response, trailing by 67.
Vidarbha’s second innings collapsed to 191 all out, enforcing the 259 target. Andhra’s batsmen rose to the occasion effortlessly. Notably, this result snaps Vidarbha’s remarkable 16-game winning run in first-class matches post their last Ranji final loss.
As the tournament progresses, Andhra’s depth and Rashid’s form signal strong contention in the group stages.