In a match against Bengal, Uttar Pradesh opted to bowl on a green top after a delayed start. This resulted in their first innings lasting just 20.5 overs in the opening session. Bengal’s Mohammed Kaif, brother of India seamer Mohammed Shami, was the star player, claiming 4 for 14 in his 5.5 overs.
However, Bhuvneshwar Kumar marked his first-class return with a masterclass, claiming 5 for 25 from 13 overs, three of which were maidens. He dismissed several Bengal players, showcasing his strength as a bowler.
With doubts lingering over Shami’s return and the upcoming home Test series against England, it remains to be seen if Bhuvneshwar’s performance will prompt selectors to reconsider him after this show. At the end of the day’s play, Bengal were 95 for 5, with opener Sayan Ghosh scoring a dogged 37 off 87 balls.
In another match against Andhra, Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane was dismissed for a duck by Reddy. Shreyas Iyer, returning to the Mumbai XI for the first time in the Ranji Trophy since the 2018-19 season, scored a run-a-ball 48 before getting dismissed. Iyer struggled for form in the recent Test series in South Africa, and his performance will be closely watched by selectors.
