Kanpur: Uttar Pradesh began their Ranji Trophy campaign in convincing fashion, defeating Bihar by an innings and 267 runs on the third day of their opening pool match at Rajgir International Cricket Stadium in Rajgir, Bihar, on Monday.
UP bowlers dominated proceedings, bundling out Bihar for 141 in the first innings and 132 in the second. The bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly on the third day, conceding just 229 runs while claiming 18 wickets to wrap up the match and secure a comprehensive victory. Right-arm off-spinner Karan Sharma spearheaded the attack, claiming seven wickets in the match, while all-rounder Kartik Yadav picked up six. Zeeshan Ansari also impressed with five wickets, including four in the second innings.
UP coach Gyanendra Pandey expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance. Speaking to TOI, he praised the bowlers for making excellent use of the wicket and lauded captain Aryan Juyal for handling his bowling resources effectively.