Mumbai’s Dominance in Vijay Hazare Trophy
In a stellar display of batting, Mumbai posted a colossal total of 403/7 in their Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Nagaland at the Narendra Modi Stadium Ground A in Ahmedabad on December 31. The innings was anchored by Ayush Mhatre’s magnificent 181 and finished with a fiery flourish by Shardul Thakur, who smashed an unbeaten 73 off just 28 balls.
Ayush Mhatre Shines with a Stunning 181
The foundation of Mumbai’s innings was laid by a remarkable opening partnership of 156 runs between Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Ayush Mhatre. Raghuvanshi contributed a solid 56 runs before departing, setting the stage for Mhatre to unleash his full potential. The young batter went on to score a breathtaking 181, adorned with 15 fours and 11 sixes. Despite this sensational performance, Mhatre’s name surprisingly went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, leaving fans wondering about the league’s valuation of emerging talent.
Nagaland’s Brief Comeback
After Mhatre’s dismissal in the 37th over, Nagaland managed to claw their way back into the match by taking quick wickets. Mumbai, once cruising at 268/3, found themselves at 290/6 in no time. The sudden collapse gave Nagaland a glimmer of hope, but Shardul Thakur had other plans.
Shardul Thakur’s Late-Innings Carnage
Captain Shardul Thakur stepped up when Mumbai needed a boost. Coming in at a precarious position, he played an explosive knock of 73 runs off just 28 balls. His innings featured eight towering sixes and two boundaries, propelling Mumbai to a total that seemed insurmountable. Thakur’s blitz in the final overs added 41 runs off just 16 balls, ensuring Mumbai crossed the 400-run mark.
Mumbai’s Bowlers Dominate Early
Nagaland’s response to Mumbai’s massive total got off to a disastrous start. By the 13th over, they were reeling at 40/5, with Shardul Thakur contributing two crucial wickets. Nagaland’s batting lineup struggled against Mumbai’s relentless attack, further tilting the match in Mumbai’s favor.
Shardul Thakur’s Mixed Fortunes
Despite his match-winning performances at the domestic level, Shardul Thakur has been out of favor with the national selectors and failed to attract any bids in the IPL 2025 mega auction. His recent exploits, however, may reignite discussions about his place in both the national side and the IPL.
Conclusion
Mumbai’s commanding performance, led by Ayush Mhatre’s masterclass and Shardul Thakur’s fireworks, has put them in a strong position to secure a resounding victory. As Nagaland struggles to find stability, this match underscores the depth of talent in Indian domestic cricket and the potential for players like Mhatre and Thakur to make a comeback on the bigger stage.(live score cricket ipl)