Ranji Trophy 2023-24: Nagaland settle for draw against Mizoram

DIMAPUR — The four-day Test match between Nagaland and Mizoram in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2023-24 (Plate group) ended in a draw on Monday, as both the teams failed to take all the wickets twice during the stipulated time.

Nagaland managed to score only 211 runs in the first innings, with Sedezhalie Rupreo scoring 45 runs, Jonathan Rongsen 38, Yugandhar Singh  37 and Jaganath Sinivas 35 (not out), while Mizoram’s Mohit Jagra tore through the batting line-up of Nagaland with a staggering 6-wicket haul, according to a delayed update from Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA).

After an impressive bowling display, Mizoram’s batsmen reciprocated by putting a commanding 356 runs on the board in the first innings, helped by Agni Chopra with 164 runs and Mohit Jagra 113 (not out).

Tahmeed Rahman took 3 wickets for Nagaland, while Karan Tewatiya and Jonathan Rongsen took 2 wickets apiece.

However, Nagaland fought back strongly in the second innings by scoring 463 runs for loss of 7 wickets (declared), with Sedezhalie Rupreo scoring 179 runs, Jaganath Sinivas 86, Sumit Kumar 74 (not out) and Joshua Ben Ozukum 70.

With 319 runs needed for Mizoram to win, the game looked open for both the teams to script a victory.

As the game progresses, Nagaland’s disciplined bowling from Imliwati Lemtur (4 wickets) and Jaganath Sinivas (2 wickets) put the team in an advantageous position, requiring only 2 wickets to win the match. However, Mizoram’s tailenders stood firm on their grounds and handed out a draw for their team by remaining not out at stumps.

Mizoram put up 221 runs on the board for loss of 8 wickets in the second innings, with Mohit Jagra scoring a fighting 61 runs after taking 6 wickets in the first innings, for which he awarded Man of the Match.

Nagaland will next take on Meghalaya at MCA Cricket Ground, Polo Ground, Shillong, from January 19 to the 22nd.

Also read: Ranji Trophy opener: Nagaland face uphill battle against Hyderabad