India's star batter Sanju Samson shone bright for Kerala in their ongoing fixture against Maharashtra. Notably, Samson, who wasn't included in India's ODI squad for Australia series, was playing his first red-ball game since October 2024. Samson made a significant impact for his state team, slamming a crucial half-century in challenging conditions. Batting at number 5, he scored 54 runs off 63 balls on a pitch where both teams struggled, failing to breach the 50-run mark in their respective first innings.
Sanju Samson cracks brilliant fifty for Kerala
Samson walked to the crease when Kerala was in trouble at 35/2. He first steadied the innings by adding 40 runs for the fourth wicket alongside Sachin Baby, before the former Kerala captain was dismissed for 7. Samson then played a rescuer's role, putting on a vital 57-run partnership for the fifth wicket before his own dismissal for 54. However, Samson's time in the Ranji Trophy will be brief; he is available for only this one match as he is part of India's T20I squad for the upcoming series against Australia. The five T20Is are scheduled for October 29, 31, November 2, 6, and 8, which clashes with the second round of the Ranji Trophy, set to be played from October 25 to 28.
How did the Kerala vs Maharashtra Day 3 game pan out?
Kerala was unable to secure a first-innings lead and was eventually bowled out for 219. Contributions with the bat came from captain Mohammed Azharuddeen, who scored 36 off 52 balls, and Salma Nizar, who hit 49 off 93 balls. With the ball, Jalaj Saxena delivered a notable performance against his former team, claiming a three-wicket haul. He was supported by Mukesh Choudhary, Rajeesh Gurbani, and Vicky Ostwal, who each managed to scalp two wickets.
Maharashtra had a disastrous start on the opening day, reeling at 5 runs for the loss of four wickets at one stage. However, key performances with the bat rescued their innings. Ruturaj Gaikwad anchored the recovery with a message-sending knock of 91 off 151 balls. Jalaj Saxena not only shone with the ball but also scored a crucial 49, while Vicky Ostwal added a vital 38 off 110 balls. Ramakrishna Ghosh also played a significant supporting role, contributing 31 runs.