Kerala Ends Ranji Trophy Campaign with Convincing Win Over Goa

Kerala secures nine-wicket victory in final match of season

Kerala concluded its Ranji Trophy 2019–20 season with a comprehensive nine-wicket win over Goa at the Goa Cricket Association Ground in Porvorim. Despite the dominant performance in the final encounter, Kerala’s overall campaign remained underwhelming.

The highlight of the match was medium-pacer N.P. Basil Nidheesh, who claimed a five-wicket haul in the second innings—a performance that marked his ninth five-for in First Class cricket.

Nidheesh leads bowling attack in decisive spell

Kerala’s bowlers restricted Goa to 181 in their second innings, with Nidheesh playing a central role in dismantling the batting line-up. His disciplined line and length coupled with effective seam movement made it difficult for Goa to build momentum.

His fifer ensured a low target for Kerala in the fourth innings, paving the way for an easy chase. Apart from Nidheesh, Kerala’s bowling unit maintained pressure from both ends, effectively neutralising Goa’s attempts to recover after an underwhelming first innings.

Goa shows fight through Misal and Tendulkar

Earlier in the match, Goa’s batting performance remained lacklustre, with the home side facing the possibility of an innings defeat. However, all-rounder Darshan Misal brought some resistance with a resilient half-century. He partnered with Shubham Ranjane Tendulkar for a 60-run stand for the ninth wicket, which helped Goa cross the deficit and force Kerala to bat again.

Misal’s composed innings under pressure proved crucial in extending the match to the fourth innings, although it ultimately could not prevent a defeat.

Kerala finishes chase with minimal loss

Needing 34 runs for victory in the final innings, Kerala’s openers approached the chase with assurance. The team lost only one wicket before reaching the target, securing a nine-wicket win. The swift conclusion to the match reflected Kerala’s control throughout the contest.

While the win came as a boost, it was insufficient to salvage Kerala’s overall campaign in the tournament, where the side struggled for consistency in earlier rounds.

Disappointing season ends on a positive note

Heading into the match against Goa, Kerala had already been knocked out of contention for qualification to the knockout rounds. The team’s performance throughout the season included a mix of close finishes and heavy defeats, which left them in the lower half of Group A and B combined standings.

Despite the disappointing campaign, the victory over Goa allowed Kerala to sign off with some encouragement. Individual performances, such as those from Nidheesh and select contributions from the batting unit, provided positive takeaways as the side looks toward rebuilding in the next domestic season.

The match marked the end of the Ranji season for both Kerala and Goa, with neither team advancing further in the tournament.

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