Ranji Trophy 2017/18: Umesh Yadav Hopes Vidarbha Team Mate Plays for India One Day

Vidarbha reached their maiden Ranji Trophy final after defeating Karnataka in a thrilling semi-final by just five runs at the Eden Gardens, and the players are ecstatic to perform against seven times Ranji Trophy winners Delhi. Vidarbha have been blessed with the presence of Umesh Yadav in the side as India’s Test season is currently on a break. However, Rajneesh Gurbani has been the most successful bowler for Vidarbha this season.

Gurbani picked up seven wickets in the second innings of the semi-final and helped his team win. Karnataka began day five with an overnight score of 111/7 but were bowled out for 192 while chasing 198. Gurbani finished with the match figures of 12/162 and second innings figure of 7/68. This was Gurbani’s fifth five-wicket haul on the trot.

Indian speedster Umesh Yadav, who is the first player from Vidarbha to represent India, partnered Gurbani in the semi finals and hopes he plays for India one day and becomes the second player from Vidarbha to play for India. He said:

“He has been bowling really well in recent times. This was his fifth five-wicket haul and in the final he will do well I am sure. My best wishes will be with him always. I wish he becomes the second player from Vidarbha to make it to the Indian team.”

Umesh said he advised Gurbani to stay calm during the match and not think about the runs:

“During those tense moments, I was telling him to stay calm and not get anxious. He was the main bowler and we needed him to relax. The responsibility was on me to keep him calm being the senior pro. I told him not to think about the runs. In the final, the team does not need my advice. They have been doing well and I hope they will make a good match.”

Vidarbha and Delhi will face other at the Eden Gardens on 29^th December. Vidarbha will be without the services of Umesh Yadav as he leaves for South Africa with the Indian team on 27^th December.