They beat Nagaland by 362 runs, secure Elite Division promotion
Panaji: Goa triumphed in the Ranji Trophy Plate Group final with a commanding 362-run victory over Nagaland at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium on Monday, clinching the title and securing promotion to the Elite Division for the next season.
Chasing a daunting target of 578, Nagaland was bowled out for 215 on the final day. Goa’s skipper Darshan Misal was the standout performer, claiming 5 for 48 with his left-arm spin to seal the victory.
Earlier, Goa won the toss and elected to bat. Half-centuries from Suyash Prabhudessai (56), Snehal Kauthankar (63), and Kashyap Bakle (79 not out) propelled them to 276 in their first innings. Nagaland’s response fell short by 60 runs, despite a valiant 86 from captain R. Jonathan and a solid 55 from Hem Chetri, as they were dismissed for 216.
The host’s hopes were briefly revived when Goa was reduced to 42 for 3, but a monumental 278-run fourth-wicket partnership between Kauthankar (202 not out) and Bakle (161) shifted the momentum. Misal and Kauthankar also added 145 runs for the fifth wicket, leaving Nagaland with little chance.
Goa declared their second innings at 7 for 517, and despite a late fight, Nagaland lost six wickets by the end of the fourth day. The final day saw Goa wrap up the victory after lunch, capping off a dominant performance.
