Nagaland’s 2024-25 Ranji Trophy campaign has been nothing short of spectacular, with their latest victory against Sikkim by an innings and 39 runs bringing them one step closer to a historic spot in the finals. The match, held at the Nagaland Cricket Stadium in Sovima, Dimapur, saw Nagaland dominate both with the bat and ball, strengthening their hold on second place in the Plate Group standings.
Batting first, Nagaland posted an impressive 347 runs in 123 overs. Leading the charge was Dega Nischal, whose well-crafted 116 anchored the innings, supported by Hem Chetri’s gritty 67. Sikkim’s bowlers struggled to contain Nagaland’s batting line-up, with Lee Yong Lepcha’s 3/68 being the only notable performance from their attack.
In response, Sikkim crumbled to 192 all out in their first innings. Ashish Thapa’s 57 was the only bright spot in an otherwise shaky batting performance, as Nagaland’s Dip Borah ran riot, claiming 5/31. Following on, Sikkim’s second innings was no different. They were skittled for 116, with Ankur Malik’s 47 offering some resistance, but it wasn’t enough to stop Jagadeesha Suchith from tearing through the order with a fiery spell of 6/36.
Nagaland’s comprehensive win not only earned them 20 crucial points but also solidified their chances of advancing to the finals. The team now turns its attention to a must-win clash against Mizoram next week, which will determine whether they face Goa in the final in January. With Nischal in sublime form and Suchith leading the bowling attack, Nagaland’s dream run could very well end with a high-stakes final against Goa.