Harsh Dubey delivered a career-defining performance on Monday, claiming nine wickets for just 53 runs to bowl Madhya Pradesh out for 209 in the opening day of their Elite Group A Ranji Trophy clash at the VCA Stadium in Jamtha. The 23-year-old left-arm spinner’s 23.1-over masterclass saw him dismantle the opposition batting lineup, with Nachiket Bhute providing the initial breakthrough by dismissing opener Yash Dubey. From the 17th over onward, Dubey struck at regular intervals, controlling the tempo and restricting the run rate to secure a dominant start for Vidarbha.
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This historic haul has etched Dubey’s name into the tournament’s record books, making him the first Vidarbha bowler to take nine wickets in a single innings. He surpassed the previous state record held by Arun Ogiral, who claimed 8/39 against the same Madhya Pradesh side in the 1967-68 season. Dubey’s feat places him in an elite company, becoming only the 30th bowler in Ranji Trophy history to achieve nine or more wickets in an innings. His performance not only secured a crucial advantage for his team but also highlighted his consistency and skill under pressure.
The timing of this extraordinary spell could not be more significant, as Dubey was named in India’s 15-member squad for the ACC Men’s Rising Stars Asia Cup just hours before the match began. This immediate transition from a record-breaking state performance to a national call-up underscores the BCCI’s confidence in his potential. As the young spinner prepares to represent India on the international stage, his stunning Ranji Trophy debut in the Elite Group serves as a powerful statement of his readiness and talent.
Source: Yahoo Sports
