The drama intensified after lunch on Day 5 of the Ranji Trophy quarterfinal as Jammu & Kashmir’s spinners seized control of the game, leaving an uphill task for Kerala.
Following a steady first session, where Kerala reached 146/3, the post-lunch period saw a shift in momentum as Abid Mushtaq and Sahil Lotra struck crucial blows, reducing Kerala to 198/6, when this report was being filed.
After Kerala’s first-innings lead of just one run, their batters had focused on surviving rather than chasing victory. However, the introduction of spin after lunch turned the tide in J&K’s favour.
Mushtaq claimed two vital wickets, and Lotra too struck again after lunch. Putting pressure on Sachin Baby and Jalaj Saxena, the spin duo sent back both the batters to the dressing room, both claiming 2 wickets each.
With the spinners tightening their grip, Kerala’s batters face a stern test to hold on for the remaining sessions, while J&K’s bowlers are desperate for more breakthroughs to keep their semifinal hopes alive.
The battle for survival is on, as Kerala fights to bat through the remaining sessions and secure their semifinal spot.
Earlier, resuming day 5 Kerala went on with a defensive approach after securing a first-inning lead of one run against Jammu & Kashmir. GK
