In the semi-final match Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 At the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, mumbai won over Baroda With 6 doors. The exciting competition was highlighted by an incredible pageant display from Mumbai Atharva AnkolekarAmazing catch to reverse Baroda’s opener Abhimanyu Singh.
Excellent catch by Atharva Ankolekar
The wicket came in the 3rd over of Baroda’s innings when Mumbai’s bowler. Mohit Avasthi A short pass to Abhimanyu, who attempted a shot over the line but the ball deflected into the air. It looked like it would land safely outside mid-wicket, but Ankolekar at mid-wicket had other plans.
The 24-year-old ran after the ball and timed his dive perfectly in a display of amazing athleticism. Although he managed to get both hands under the ball, the ball slipped slightly from his fingers. However, Ankolekar’s quick reflexes allowed him to recover, hitting the ball inches off the ground at the second attempt. The crowd erupted as Mumbai made an early breakthrough, dismissing Abhimanyu Singh off 10 balls for 9 runs.
We present the video:
🔹🔹 𝐴. 𝐊𝐩𝐥𝐧!
This was absolutely amazing from Atharva Ankolekar 👌👌
LIVE ▶️ https://t.co/b9vrOYcADy#SMAT | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/sU1RMgOGoq
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) December 13, 2024
Ankolekar was not only a hero on the field; he also contributed with the ball. The left-arm spinner took the crucial wicket, leaving Baroda behind Bhanu Pania. Ankolekar’s all-round performance proved to be a major factor in Mumbai’s dominance throughout the match.
Also WATCH: Lukman Meriwala single-handedly picks three wickets in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024
Baroda sets a modest target
Asked to bat first, Baroda posted a total of 158/7 in the allotted 20 overs. Despite some resistance, their shooting never gained momentum. Shivalik Sharma 36 not out from 24 balls including 2 fours and 2 sixes was a standout for Baroda. However, Mumbai’s bowlers maintained tight control with every bowler taking at least one wicket.
Suryansh Shedge was particularly effective, with 2 of his posts taking 2 goals. A disciplined bowling performance by Mumbai kept Baroda’s total in check and left Mumbai with a target of 159.
Mumbai chase with Ajinkya Rahane’s explosive knock
In reply, Mumbai chased down the target with ease without wasting time, scoring 164/4 in just 17.2 overs. Mumbai’s batting was led by their opener, Ajinkya Rahane56 runs off 98 balls. Rahane’s innings included 11 fours and 5 sixes and he posted an exceptional strike rate of 175.00, narrowly missing out on a decent century.
While Rahane’s fireworks caught the attention, Mumbai’s captain, Shreyas Iyer, He played an important supporting role by scoring 46 runs off 30 balls. Iyer’s innings kept Mumbai on track and their victory was secured by 2 overs.
Rahane was rightly adjudged Man of the Match for his outstanding contribution with the bat. Mumbai’s all-round performance qualified them for the finals of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, becoming the first team to reach the finals of the tournament.