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In the semifinal encounter of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Mumbai emerged victorious over Baroda by 6 wickets. The thrilling contest was highlighted by an incredible fielding display from Mumbai’s Atharva Ankolekar, who took a stunning catch to dismiss Baroda’s opener Abhimanyu Singh.
Atharva Ankolekar’s outstanding catch
The wicket came in the 3rd over of Baroda’s innings, when Mumbai’s bowler Mohit Avasthi delivered a shortish delivery to Abhimanyu, he attempted a pull shot across the line, only for the ball to skew high into the air. It looked as though it would fall safely beyond mid-wicket, but Ankolekar, stationed at mid-wicket, had other plans.
The 24-year-old sprinted after the ball, and in a stunning display of athleticism, he timed his dive perfectly. He managed to get both hands under the ball, but it slipped slightly off his fingers. However, Ankolekar’s quick reflexes allowed him to recover, pouncing on the ball in a second attempt just inches above the ground. The crowd erupted as Mumbai took an early breakthrough, dismissing Abhimanyu Singh for 9 runs off 10 balls.
Here is the video:
𝙒𝙃𝘼𝙏. 𝘼. 𝘾𝘼𝙏𝘾𝙃!
That was an absolute stunner from Atharva Ankolekar 👌👌
LIVE ▶️ https://t.co/b9vrOYcADy#SMAT | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/sU1RMgOGoq
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) December 13, 2024
Ankolekar wasn’t just a hero in the field; he also contributed with the ball. The left-arm off-spinner claimed a crucial wicket, dismissing Baroda’s Bhanu Pania. Ankolekar’s all-round performance proved to be a key factor in Mumbai’s dominance throughout the match.
Also WATCH: Lukman Meriwala picks three wickets in a single over at Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024
Baroda sets a modest target
Asked to bat first, Baroda posted a total of 158/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite some resistance, their innings never really gained momentum. Shivalik Sharma was the standout performer for Baroda, scoring 36 not out off 24 balls, which included 2 fours and 2 sixes. However, Mumbai’s bowlers maintained tight control, with every bowler picking up at least one wicket.
Suryansh Shedge was particularly impressive, taking 2 wickets in his 2-over spell. Mumbai’s disciplined bowling performance ensured that Baroda’s total was kept under control, leaving Mumbai with a chaseable target of 159.
Mumbai’s chase led by Ajinkya Rahane’s explosive batting
In reply, Mumbai wasted no time and chased down the target with ease, scoring 164/4 in just 17.2 overs. Mumbai’s batting was led by their opener, Ajinkya Rahane, who played a blistering knock of 98 runs off 56 balls. Rahane’s innings included 11 fours and 5 sixes, and he displayed an exceptional strike rate of 175.00, narrowly missed out on a well-deserved century.
While Rahane’s fireworks stole the spotlight, Mumbai’s captain, Shreyas Iyer, played a vital supporting role, scoring 46 runs off 30 balls. Iyer’s composed innings ensured that Mumbai stayed on track, and their victory was secured with more than 2 overs to spare.
Rahane was rightfully named the Player of the Match for his outstanding contribution with the bat. Mumbai’s all-around performance earned them a place in the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, becoming the first team to reach the tournament’s final.
