Uttarakhand scripts history, storms into first-ever Ranji Trophy semi-final

Dehradun: Uttarakhand cricket touched a new high on Sunday as the state team scripted history by storming into the semi-finals of the Ranji Trophy for the first time, defeating Jharkhand by an innings and six runs in the quarterfinal at Jamshedpur.Playing at the Keenan Stadium from Jan 6 to 8, Uttarakhand delivered a performance that reflected both grit and growing maturity on the domestic circuit. After restricting Jharkhand to 235 in their first innings, the Himalayan side seized control of the contest with a commanding batting effort, piling up 371 runs in reply.The foundation of Uttarakhand's innings was laid by Jagdisha Suchith, whose patient 70 off 172 balls anchored the middle order, while skipper Kunal Chandela led from the front with a fluent 68 off 112 deliveries. Their partnerships ensured Uttarakhand not only erased the deficit but built a decisive lead.If the batting set the stage, the bowling sealed the script. Jharkhand's second innings lasted barely a session, as they were skittled out for 130 on the third day. Mayank Mishra emerged as the architect of the collapse, producing a match-winning spell to finish with eight wickets. After claiming three for 50 in the first innings, Mishra ran through the hosts with a sensational five for 22, earning him the player of the match award. He was well supported by Abhay Negi, who chipped in with four wickets for 36.Congratulating the team, chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami termed the achievement "historic". "This is the result of the hard work and commitment shown by our players. This achievement will be a huge motivation for young cricketers of our state who aspire to represent Uttarakhand and, eventually, India," Dhami said.