Tinsukia
The Ranji Trophy clash between Assam and Services at the Tinsukia District Sports Association Ground entered the record books as the shortest-ever completed match in the tournament’s storied history, lasting just 90 overs — or 540 balls. Services emerged victorious by eight wickets, sealing their second consecutive win of the 2025–26 season.
The extraordinary contest witnessed a flurry of wickets from start to finish. Batting first, Assam were bundled out for a mere 103 runs in just 17.2 overs as Arjun Sharma (5/46) and Mohit Jangra (3/5) scripted history by taking a hat-trick each — the first time two bowlers have achieved the feat in the same innings of a first-class match.
Services’ reply was short-lived, however, as Assam’s Riyan Parag produced a brilliant fightback. The all-rounder registered his career-best bowling figures of 5 for 25, his second five-wicket haul in first-class cricket, restricting Services to 108 in 29.2 overs. His effort, supported by Rahul Singh’s 4/34, kept the hosts in contention despite conceding a slender five-run lead.
Assam’s batting woes continued in the second innings, folding for just 75 runs in 29.3 overs, with four batters dismissed for ducks. Only three players managed double-digit scores as Services’ bowlers dominated once again.
Chasing a modest 71-run target, Services cruised to victory in 13.5 overs, losing two wickets — both claimed by Parag.
The two-day fixture eclipsed the previous record for the shortest Ranji Trophy match, set in 1962 when Delhi defeated Railways in 547 balls. Despite its brevity, the game delivered a remarkable mix of drama, records, and standout performances, ensuring its place in Indian domestic cricket history.
