Academic interest in final West Zone league matches tomorrow

Mumbai, Feb 17 (UNI) The last two league matches of the West Zone one-day tournament hold little significance with Maharashtra already having been assured of the Ramakant Desai Trophy following their one-wicket win over Mumbai yesterday.

Maharashtra are on 14 points, followed by Mumbai on 13. Baroda have eight points and even if they beat Maharashtra tomorrow in a day-night affair, it will take them to level with Mumbai which, however, will not be enough to make the grade as Mumbai having beaten Baroda will take the second spot to move into the knock-out stage as the second team along with Maharashtra.

Unable to eke out a bonus point during their victories against Gujarat and Saurashtra has really hampered Baroda's chances of qualifying for the next stage.

Gujarat had made the knock-out stage last year, but were disappointing this time around. They would look to end their campaign on a bright note when they meet Saurashtra in another day-night fixture at the Brabourne Stadium.

UNI