Madhya Pradesh stormed into the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Delhi in the second semi-final held at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, on Friday, December 13. (Highlights | Cricket News)
Madhy Pradesh's last appearance in the final came in 2011, where they finished as runners-up. This victory marks a significant milestone for MP as they aim to clinch the title this time around with Rajat Patidar as captain.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Madhya Pradesh's bowlers delivered a stellar performance. A critical phase in the middle overs saw them take three wickets for just 25 runs, effectively derailing Delhi's innings. Venkatesh Iyer played a pivotal role with the ba൲ll, delivering crucial breakthroughs to kee♔p Delhi in check with two wickets.
Despite a modest recovery, Delhi's total of 147 was always going to be tough to defend on ꦰa batting-friendly surface known for favoring chasing teams.
And for a brief moment, the game tilted in Delhi's favor. Ishant Sharma set the tone with an electrifying start, taking two early wickets, including a first-ball stunner, which sent shoc🥀kwaves through the MP dugout. With MP wobbling after losing quick wickets, Delhi seemed t♍o have the upper hand.
But then stepped in Patidar, the Madhya Pradesh captain. Fully aware of the stakes, Patidar showca𓆉sed a captain's knock, blending composure with aggression. His intent was clear: take responsibility and steer his side back into the game.
He counterat🌳tacked brilliantly, smashing a rapid 23-ball fifty to ensure his team remained on course. He scored 66* off 29 balls and was also named Pla꧋yer of the Match.
Harpreet Singh provided crucial support with 46* off 38 balls and together, they guided MP to a comfortable win, ꩲsecuring th♑eir place in the final.
Madhya Pradesh will now face Mꦓumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 final on Sunday at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
