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SKY Fails, Nair Ton: How India’s Big Names Fared on Day 1 of Ranji Trophy 2025 Quarter-Finals
Indian Stars Shine and Struggle on Opening Day of Ranji Trophy 2025 Quarterfinals
Indian cricket stars returned to the domestic red-ball scene as the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 entered its knockout stage. With multiple players vying for a potential comeback to the national squad, the first day of the quarter-finals saw a mix of successes and failures. While Karun Nair continued his incredible domestic run with a fine century, Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube struggled to make an impact for Mumbai. Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara also had contrasting fortunes as the Ranji Trophy 2025 quarter-finals got underway.
Karun Nair Stays in Red-Hot Form for Vidarbha
Nair’s Unbeaten Century Lifts Vidarbha
Vidarbha’s experienced batter Karun Nair continued his sensational domestic form with an unbeaten century against Tamil Nadu in Nagpur. Walking in at number five with Vidarbha struggling at 44-3, Nair anchored the innings with a well-composed 100* off 180 deliveries. His knock included 14 fours and one six, guiding his team to 264-6 at stumps.
The seasoned cricketer had already showcased his form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25, where he amassed 778 runs, making him one of the most in-form batters in Indian domestic cricket.
Mumbai Duo Falter on Ranji Trophy Return
Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube Struggle
Mumbai’s middle-order batters Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube, both returning from India’s victorious 4-1 T20I series against England, failed to capitalize on their form. Suryakumar was dismissed cheaply for nine by Haryana pacer Sumit Kumar, while Shivam Dube managed 28 before falling to Ajit Chahal.
Their early exits put Mumbai under pressure in their quarter-final clash against Haryana, though Shams Mulani’s crucial 91 helped Mumbai post a competitive 278-8 at stumps.
Ajinkya Rahane’s Start Cut Short
Mumbai Captain Fails to Convert Promising Innings
Mumbai captain and former India Test mainstay Ajinkya Rahane started well but could not capitalize on his confident knock. He scored 31 off 58 balls before being dismissed by Haryana’s Anshul Kamboj. Rahane’s return to domestic cricket is being closely watched as he eyes another national comeback.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Short Stay in the Middle
Pujara Fails to Rescue Saurashtra Against Gujarat
Cheteshwar Pujara, one of India’s most accomplished Test batters, had a brief stay at the crease during Saurashtra’s quarterfinal match against Gujarat. Pujara managed 26 off 38 balls, striking six boundaries, before being dismissed by left-arm spinner Siddharth Desai. His early departure hurt Saurashtra’s chances as they were bundled out for 216 on Day 1.
For more Ranji Trophy updates, check out Ranji Trophy 2025 News & Results.
Read more about India’s recent T20I series win against England on ESPN Cricinfo.
