Host Kerala faces a stern test on its ability when it meets table topper Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy cricket match at the St.Xavier’s College ground on Friday.
The 41-time champion showcased its myriad strengths and tenacity in the first two matches to carve out wins with bonus points and will be keen to carry the momentum against Kerala.
Led by Ajinkya Rahane, Mumbai has players with experience and expertise to excel on a surface which has traditionally helped the spinners. In Shams Mulani, Mumbai has a wily and dangerous spinner. Anticipating a turning track, Mumbai has also included off-spinner Himanshu Singh in the squad.
Mumbai’s batting lineup with the likes of captain Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube will evoke fear and threat, as Rahane will be looking for a big score after a disappointing performance against Andhra.
For Kerala, Jalaj Saxena, after a poor outing against Uttar Pradesh, looked to be getting back to his rhythm against Assam. He will enjoy bowling on the surface, which has bought him a bucketful of wickets. However, the lack of support for Jalaj will be a worrying factor. Leg spinner Shreyas Gopal hasn’t been able to create an impact as the opposition batters have chosen to attack him.
However, Basil Thampi’s return to form is a good sign for Kerala. The medium pacer has found swing with both old and new balls to give Kerala crucial breakthroughs. With the lion-hearted M.D.Nidheesh supporting him well, Kerala has hurt the opposition with the new ball. But Kerala’s batting lineup is prone to collapses, and it happened in both matches this season.
Sanju Samson’s return after India duty will be a big boost. Sachin Baby has seemingly slipped into his familiar role of a crisis man again. With Rohan Prem running into form, he, along with Sanju and Baby, will again hold the key to Kerala’s fortunes.
“Mumbai is a strong side, and we should play at our best to be competitive. As I said, we need to win sessions to put them under pressure,’‘ Kerala coach M.Venkataramana said.
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