Sachin Baby takes responsibility for Kerala's Ranji Trophy final loss
What's the story
In a recent press conference, Kerala's cricket team captain Sachin Baby took full responsibility for his team's heartbreaking defeat in the Ranji Trophy final.
"As the leader, I'll take the blame," he said. "My shot changed the momentum of the game."
His admission came after Kerala faltered against Vidarbha on the basis of a first innings lead.
Here are further details
Moment of change
Baby's 'brain fade' moment changes match's course
The turning point of the match came when Baby, on the verge of a century in his 100th First-Class game, played a risky shot.
He termed it a "brain fade" moment at the post-match press conference.
"I wanted to be there for the team, and we were six down," he said. "I wanted to be there till the end to get the lead."
Reflection
Baby reflects on his pivotal shot
Baby couldn't give a proper explanation for his rash shot, confessing it was more instinct than a calculated risk.
"I was playing all along the ground till that moment, but then I don't know what happened and why I played that shot," he said.
He also emphasized on another important moment of the game - "But that and the dropped catch of Karun [Nair] were important moments of the game."
Team spirit
Baby's commitment to team
At 36, Baby is the oldest member of his team and he refuses to be called a 'veteran.'
He spoke about his undying love for the sport and how he has never felt fitter.
"We have to improve still," he said, sharing an inspiring story about Vidarbha's comeback from last year's final defeat.
This shows his determination not just for himself but for the team.
Runs
Baby slams 98 for Kerala
Baby was Kerala's hero in the 2nd innings of the match, scoring 98 from 235 balls (4s: 10).
In 10 matches this season (15 innings), Baby raced to 516 runs at 36.85. This was his top score and a fifth fifty. He shared a 63-run stand alongside Aditya Sarwate before stitching a 59-run partnership with Mohammed Azhauddeen for the 6th wicket.
Baby has 5,747 runs in FC cricket with the help of 14 tons and 29 fifties.
Summary
Vidarbha beat Kerala to win 3rd Ranji title
Vidarbha cricket team won its third Ranji Trophy title on basis of their first innings lead versus Kerala in the 2024/25 final.
The high-scoring match in Nagpur ended in a draw on Day 5.
Vidarbha scored 379/10 in the first innings with Kerala responding with 342 runs.
In the 3rd innings, Vidarbha scored 375/9 before the captains shook hands.
Danish Malewar and Karun Nair were the top performers for Vidarbha with the bat across both innings.