Saurashtra delivered a powerful performance on Friday, securing their place in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 final with a convincing nine-wicket win over Punjab in the second semi-final. The team will now face Vidarbha in the championship match scheduled for January 18.
Dominant Chase Led by Jadeja
Chasing a target of 292 runs, Saurashtra completed the task with remarkable ease in just 39.3 overs. Opener Vishvaraj Jadeja played a sensational innings, remaining not out on 165 runs from 127 balls. His explosive knock included 18 fours and three sixes, setting the tone for the victory.
Strong Support from Desai and Mankad
Captain Harvik Desai provided excellent support at the other end, scoring a composed 64 runs from 63 deliveries with nine boundaries. The opening partnership between Jadeja and Desai added 172 runs, effectively putting the game out of Punjab's reach.
After Desai's dismissal, Prerak Mankad ensured a smooth finish with an unbeaten 52 off 49 balls, hitting seven fours. Saurashtra cruised to the target without further trouble.
Punjab's Batting Effort
Earlier in the match, Punjab posted a total of 291 runs after being asked to bat first. Anmolpreet Singh anchored the innings with a well-crafted century, scoring 100 runs from 105 balls with nine fours and a six.
Prabhsimran Singh contributed a fighting 87 runs, while Harnoor Singh added 33 before being run out due to a sharp effort from Chirag Jani. Ramandeep Singh chipped in with 42 off 38 balls, but the lower order failed to capitalize on the foundation.
Saurashtra's Bowling Performance
Saurashtra's bowlers maintained control throughout Punjab's innings. Chetan Sakariya led the attack with impressive figures of 4 for 60. Ankur Panwar supported well with 2 for 54, and Chirag Jani claimed 2 for 73.
For Punjab, Gurnoor Brar was the only bowler to take a wicket, finishing with 1 for 52. The team struggled to contain Saurashtra's aggressive batting lineup.
This victory marks Saurashtra's strong march into the final, where they will aim for the Vijay Hazare Trophy title against Vidarbha.
