Kerala secure innings win over Odisha to claim seven Ranji points
Kerala overcome first-day wobble to post comfortable innings win and maximum points at home.
Kerala completed an innings victory over Odisha at Greenfield International Cricket Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram to secure seven points from their opening Ranji Trophy match. Captain Vishnu Vinod and coach Swapnil Asnodkar praised the team's resilience after a shaky start on day one.
Mohammed Azharuddeen and Sachin Baby rescued Kerala with a substantial partnership after early wickets. Kerala's spinners then dominated to bowl Odisha out twice. Jalaj Saxena struck late on the third day to break a resistance.
Vinod said the batting contributions and spin bowling strength were key. Asnodkar noted the team exceeded its 350-run target and benefited from timely wickets. Kerala avoided weather interruptions that had threatened the match.
CricHubb Take
Kerala's spinners face a tougher test when the pitches flatten later in the season and the batsmen have to chase totals against the same sides.