Ajinkya Rahane XI beat Sachin Tendulkar XI to win U-23 Madhav Mantri Trophy

Three centuries, one half century, and a five-wicket haul were all witnessed in a single game during the final match of U-23 Madhav Mantri Trophy that was played from May 29 to May 31 at Western Railway Cricket Ground, Mahalakshmi. Winning the toss and electing to bat first, Ajinkya Rahane XI posted a daunting total of 528-8 in 141.1 overs. Their splendid batting performance saw three centuries, courtesy, Sairaj Sangle (142), Pranav Kela (107), and skipper Shams Mulani (102). Harminder Palaya was the pick of the bowlers for Sachin Tendulkar XI accounting for 3-99.

In reply, Sachin Tendulkar XI, who had won the league match against Ajinkya Rahane XI, were bundled out for a paltry 257 in 109.5 overs. Akash Anand top-scored with 78 and was ably supported by Bhupen Lalwani (46) and Shadab Khan (34). Left hand bat Shams Mulani who hit a century earlier in the match created magic with the ball picking up a fifer. Mulani, a left arm orthodox bowler, was the wrecker-in-chief grabbing 5-66, and unequivocally had a lion’s share in Ajinkya Rahane XI’s success in the final match. “Akash Anand was my favourite wicket. Out of my wickets, three were leg before wickets”, exclaimed Mulani.

Based on the 1^st innings lead, Ajinkya Rahane XI was declared as the winner of the U-23 Madhav Mantri Trophy.