Chandigarh Stuns Chhattisgarh with Stunning Comeback Victory; Desai’s Ton in Vain

Raipur

Chandigarh pulled off a sensational 54-run victory over Chhattisgarh in their Ranji Trophy Group D clash, overcoming a massive first-innings deficit in dramatic fashion. Despite trailing by over 100 runs, Chandigarh’s spirited fightback stunned the hosts, rendering Sanjeet Desai’s magnificent century futile.

After opting to bat first, Chandigarh managed 283 in their first innings, thanks to a resilient 113 from Gurinder Singh and Amrit Lal Lubana’s 92. However, Chhattisgarh’s Ravi Kiran wreaked havoc with a five-wicket haul, while Sumit Ruikar and debutant Prashant Sai Painkra contributed with two wickets each.

Chhattisgarh responded emphatically, posting a commanding 406. Desai anchored the innings with a brilliant 144—his third century of the season—while Ayush Pandey fell agonizingly short of a ton, scoring 99. Shashank Chandrakar also chipped in with a solid 70. For Chandigarh, Abhishek Saini was the standout bowler, claiming five wickets.

Trailing by 123 runs, Chandigarh showed immense resilience in their second innings, putting up 299 on the board. Manan Vohra (54) and Mayank Sidhu (47) provided crucial contributions. Ravi Kiran continued his fine form, picking up another five-wicket haul to finish with 10 wickets in the match.

Needing 177 for victory, Chhattisgarh collapsed under pressure, getting bundled out for just 122. Ayush Pandey top-scored with 41, but the rest of the batting lineup crumbled. Jagjit Singh Sandhu turned the game on its head, producing a match-winning spell with six wickets to seal Chandigarh’s improbable comeback.

Despite Desai’s valiant century and Chhattisgarh’s dominant first innings, Chandigarh’s remarkable fightback ensured they walked away with a stunning victory, showcasing the unpredictable charm of red-ball cricket.