PANAJI
Goa endured an eight-wicket loss against Maharashtra in their Ranji Trophy Elite 'B' Group encounter at the MCA Cricket Stadium in Gahunje, Pune. Set a target of 108 runs, Maharashtra completed the chase comfortably, losing only two wickets.
Earlier, Maharashtra had taken firm control of the match by posting 350 in reply to Goa's first-innings total of 209, securing a decisive 141-run lead. Goa, resuming their second innings at 210 for six on the third day, were dismissed for 248 on Sunday. Darshan Misal, who was unbeaten overnight on 52, top-scored with 65, adding 13 runs before his dismissal. Amulya Pandrekar contributed 14 runs and was the final wicket to fall.
Maharashtra's bowling was led by seasoned Veteran off spinner Jalaj Saxena, who returned figures of five for 81, while Hitesh Walunj claimed four for 63. Vicky Ostwal chipped in with one wicket.
In the run chase, Maharashtra were briefly pegged back with the early dismissals of Prithvi Shaw (17) and Niraj Joshi (22). However, Arshin Kulkarni anchored the innings with an unbeaten 52, supported by Siddharth Mhatre, who remained not out on 14.
For Goa, Lalit Yadav and Darshan Misal accounted for a wicket each. The defeat leaves Goa on 11 points from six matches, placing them fifth among eight teams in Group B. Goa will next take on Kerala in their upcoming fixture.
Ranji Trophy: Goa go down to Maharashtra
Lose the Elite Group B match by eight wickets in Pune
