Ranji Trophy Final: Vidarbha crowned Champions against Kerala - Summary, Award Winners, Prize Money, Top Players

Vidarbha has been crowned champions of the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy on Sunday at the VCA stadium in Nagpur.

The final was slated between Vidarbha and Kerala at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur from February 26 to March 2, 2025. With the win, Vidarbha clinched their third title, while Kerala made their maiden appearance in a Ranji Trophy final.

Match Summary

Vidarbha's First Innings: After being reduced to 24 for 3, Vidarbha's Danish Malewar (153) and Karun Nair (86) stabilized the innings with a 215-run partnership, guiding the team to a total of 379.

Kerala's Response: Kerala's Sachin Baby showcased resilience with a 234-ball 98. However, the team fell short, managing 342, giving Vidarbha a 37-run lead. The Kerala captain got out at a crucial moment with a very poor shot and thus the southern team got bundled out.

Vidarbha's Second Innings: Vidarbha showcased their resilience with the bat again and was 375 for 9 on the final day when the match was called for a draw and thus the Vidarbha side won the final on virtue of first-inning lead.

"The boys are very happy, we have worked very hard for this. We lost the final last year, so we started preparing from the monsoon. Everyone worked on their skills and fitness for this season. They showed their mental toughness when the team was in trouble. Proves their mettle. As a player and as a captain when you are playing a Ranji trophy, it's always a dream to lift the Ranji title. That dream has come true for me and my team today," Vidarbha captain Akshay Wadkar said.

Kerala skipper Sachin Baby was disappointed with the defeat but was extremely proud of his boys. The southpaw also took the blame on himself as he acknowledged his wicket changed the momentum of the match.