The Green Park Stadium in Kanpur witnessed a pulsating day of Ranji Trophy cricket on Friday, January 12th, 2024, as Uttar Pradesh staged a remarkable comeback against Bengal thanks to the majestic return of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. After Bengal skipper Manoj Tiwary opted to bat first on a green track, Mohammed Kaif’s fiery spell of 4/14 ripped through the UP batting lineup, dismissing them for a paltry 60 runs in just 20.5 overs.
However, the script flipped dramatically in the afternoon session. Stepping out onto the field for the first time in First-Class cricket in nearly six years, Bhuvneshwar Kumar unleashed his experience and swing bowling mastery, wreaking havoc on the Bengal batting order. His precise lines and mesmerizing seam movement resulted in a phenomenal five-wicket haul (5/25 in 13 overs), claiming the scalps of key batsmen like Sourav Paul, Sudip Kumar Gharami, Anustup Majumdar, Manoj Tiwary, and Abishek Porel.
Bhuvneshwar’s spell of brilliance brought Uttar Pradesh roaring back into the contest, reducing Bengal to 95/5 at stumps on Day 1. With a lead of just 35 runs and five wickets in hand, the match is delicately poised for an enthralling Day 2. Both teams will be striving for dominance, with Bengal aiming to extend their lead and capitalize on Kaif’s early heroics, while Uttar Pradesh will look to build on Bhuvneshwar’s momentum and potentially even take the lead.
This Day 1 drama sets the stage for a riveting battle in the Ranji Trophy. Will Bengal manage to capitalize on their early advantage, or will Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s resurgence inspire Uttar Pradesh to an unprecedented comeback? Don’t miss the Day 2 highlights to find out how this captivating Ranji clash unfolds!
