Nagaland secured a resounding victory over Arunachal Pradesh by an innings and 290 runs in their first match of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Plate Group at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium, Sovima, played from October 11 to 13, 2024.
Nagaland won the toss and elected to bat first, posting a commanding total of 509/5 declared in their first innings. Captain Jonathan Rongsen led from the front, smashing a career-best 225 runs off 240 balls to claim the Player of the Match award. He was well-supported by Dega Nischal, who contributed 149 runs from 231 balls, and Hem Bahadur Chetri, who remained unbeaten on 58*.
Despite Arunachal Pradesh’s bowling struggles, Amit Singh managed to pick up a wicket, conceding 42 runs in 14.2 overs.
In response, Arunachal Pradesh crumbled under Nagaland’s disciplined bowling attack, getting bowled out for a mere 75 runs in their first innings. Nabam Dol was the top scorer with 19 runs off 70 balls. Jagadeesha Suchith wreaked havoc, taking 5 wickets for 34 runs in 19.2 overs, while Imliwati Lemtur picked up 3 wickets for just 12 runs in 8 overs.
Forced to follow on, Arunachal Pradesh fared slightly better in their second innings but still collapsed for 144 all out. Jagadeesha Suchith claimed another 4 wickets, bringing his match tally to 9 wickets. Debutant Dib Borah shone with the ball, taking 4 crucial wickets and marking a memorable start to his first-class cricket career.
Jonathan Rongsen’s knock of 225 runs not only earned him Player of the Match honors but also added to his record as the only Naga player with two double centuries in first-class cricket. He also contributed with the ball, taking 3 wickets.
Nagaland will face Manipur in their next match, scheduled to take place on October 18, 2024, at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium, Sovima.