Fri Dec 13 13:44:28 UTC 2024: ## Rahane’s near-century, Yadav’s selfless act power Mumbai into Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final
**Vadodara, [Date of Match]:** Ajinkya Rahane’s blistering 98 and a heartwarming act of sportsmanship by Suryakumar Yadav propelled Mumbai into the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. Chasing a modest 159-run target against Vadodara in the semi-final, Rahane almost single-handedly steered Mumbai to victory.
Rahane smashed 98 runs off just 56 balls, an innings studded with 11 fours and 5 sixes. However, his century dream was cruelly thwarted by two runs when he was caught by Vishnu Solanki. With Mumbai needing only six runs to win and Rahane on 94, he attempted a single. However, Suryakumar Yadav, his partner, selflessly refused the run, ensuring that Rahane could potentially reach his century. Though the century remained elusive, Rahane’s knock was pivotal in Mumbai’s victory, achieved with four wickets in hand in 17.2 overs. The crowd lauded Yadav’s gesture with thunderous applause. Yadav himself was dismissed soon after. However, Suryansh Shedge hit a crucial six to seal the win for Mumbai.
Earlier, Vadodara, led by Krunal Pandya, posted 158/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Shivalik Sharma top-scored with 36 not out, while Krunal himself contributed a quick-fire 30. Hardik Pandya’s dismissal for a paltry 5 runs proved significant. Mumbai’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Suryansh Shedge, who claimed 4 wickets. Shardul Thakur, Shivam Dube, Tanush Kotian, and Atharva Ankolekar each took a wicket.
Rahane was awarded the Man of the Match for his stunning performance. Mumbai will now face [Opponent’s name] in the final.
**Playing Elevens:**
**Vadodara:** Krunal Pandya (c), Shashwat Rawat, Abhimanyu Singh Rajput, Hardik Pandya, Shivalik Sharma, Bhanu Pania, Vishnu Solanki (wk), Atit Sheth, Mahesh Pithiya, Lukman Meriwala, Akash Maharaj Singh.
**Mumbai:** Shreyas Iyer (c), Prithvi Shaw, Ajinkya Rahane, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Shardul Thakur, Hardik Tamore (wk), Tanush Kotian, Mohit Awasthi, Atharva Ankolekar.
First Piper 