The Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy match between Baroda and Mumbai witnessed breach of security. The game had high-profile names like Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shreyas Iyer taking the field. During the semi-final encounter, Hardik Pandya’s heart-warming gesture not only stole the spotlight but also won hearts of fans.
During the match, a few fans breached the security and entered the ground, prompting a swift response from the security personnel, who moved to escort them out. However, Hardik insisted that the intruders not be treated harshly. His stance received a loud cheer from the crowd.
Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer helps Mumbai enter SMAT final
Ajinkya Rahane’s 98 off 55 balls in the semifinal against Baroda helped Mumbai chasing down 159 runs and enter the final of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Mumbai achieved the target with 2.4 overs and six wickets in hand. Rahane’s innings consisted of 11 fours and 5 sixes.
Partnering with Shreyas Iyer, the duo added 88 runs off 56 balls, effectively sealing the game. Iyer departed for a quick 46 off 30 balls in the 13th over, dismissed by Atit Sheth. Rahane, though nearing a century, fell just short, and Suryakumar Yadav was dismissed in the 18th over. However, Suryansh Shedge finished the match in style with a six.
Earlier Iyer won the toss and asked Baroda to bat first. Following a disciplined bowling display that restricted Baroda to 158/7. Shashwat Rawat (33 off 29) and Krunal Pandya (30 off 24) provided starts, but Mumbai picked up wickets at regular interval to leave Baroda at 89/5 by the 14th over. Late contributions from Sheth and Shivalik Sharma added 53 runs in the last five overs, but the total was not enough against Mumbai’s strong batting lineup.
