Mumbai
Mumbai’s defending champions crushed Odisha by an innings and 103 runs in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match on Saturday, thanks to an impressive performance by spinners Shams Mulani and Himanshu Singh. Mulani took five wickets for 71 runs, while Singh picked up four for 77, securing nine wickets between them in Odisha’s second innings.
Mumbai’s captain Ajinkya Rahane enforced the follow-on after Odisha struggled in their first innings, managing only 285 in response to Mumbai’s massive 602 for four declared. Shreyas Iyer led Mumbai’s batting, scoring an outstanding 233, supported by Siddhesh Lad’s unbeaten 169, setting the tone for the match.
Odisha resumed their second innings at 126 for five on the final day, with faint hopes of avoiding defeat. However, Mulani quickly ended Odisha’s resistance by dismissing wicketkeeper-batter Aashirwad Swain, who had just reached his half-century at 51. With Swain’s dismissal, Odisha’s lineup crumbled, ending at 214 all out in 72.5 overs.
Mulani, who claimed 11 wickets across both innings, was named Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling performance. His control and precision dismantled Odisha’s batting, making it difficult for them to mount a defense. Mumbai’s outright win also earned them a bonus point, further solidifying their position as a top contender this season.
Brief Scores: Mumbai: 602/4 declared
Odisha: 285 and 214 (follow-on), with Aashirwad Swain scoring 51; Shams Mulani 5/71, Himanshu Singh 4/77.
