In a high-stakes encounter, Uttar Pradesh is set to take on Haryana in their second Elite Group C match of the Ranji Trophy at the Sports Galaxy Ground on Friday. With the return of star batsman Rinku Singh, UP’s middle order gains strength and depth, crucial for securing a win after their draw against Bengal in the season opener.
The Uttar Pradesh team, led by skipper Aryan Juyal, will be looking to capitalise on Rinku Singh’s form and experience. Singh’s return is expected to lift the home team’s batting line-up, which already boasts Priyam Garg, who saved the previous match with a superb century, and Juyal himself, who narrowly missed out on a century against Bengal. Siddhartha Yadav, who had an impressive 75-run knock in the last match, further strengthens the batting order.
Strong bowling attack vs Haryana
Uttar Pradesh’s bowling unit has also been in fine form. Debutant leg-spinner Vipraj Nigam took four wickets in his first match, while the experienced pacer Yash Dayal, who also claimed four wickets, will lead the pace attack.
Though Aaqib Khan will be unavailable due to his participation in the Emerging Asia Cup, the team has several bowling options, including Saurabh, Shivam Sharma, Ankit Rajpoot, and former captain Nitish Rana.
Yuzvendra Chahal returns for Haryana
Haryana, fresh off an innings victory over Bihar, will enter the match with confidence. The team received a major boost with the return of veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who recently played county cricket in England. His partnership with Jayant Yadav, who was instrumental in Haryana’s first win with 55 runs and two wickets, will be key to their bowling strength.
Historically, Haryana holds the upper hand in their head-to-head encounters, having won four out of 12 matches against Uttar Pradesh. With Chahal’s addition and Jayant Yadav’s experience, Haryana’s bowling attack is expected to pose a significant challenge to the UP batting line-up.
Positive Rinku Singh Impact
UP coach Sunil Joshi is optimistic about his team’s chances, especially with the return of Rinku Singh. Joshi believes that Rinku’s presence has injected renewed confidence into the squad, particularly among the younger players. “Rinku’s inclusion has brought energy to the middle order, and the team is motivated to deliver a solid performance,” Joshi shared.
Uttar Pradesh vs Haryana in Ranji Trophy
This Ranji Trophy match marks a milestone for Lucknow as the Sports Galaxy Ground becomes the city’s eighth venue to host first-class cricket. The ground follows in the footsteps of notable venues such as the LA Martiniere Ground, Gomti Ground, and Ekana International Cricket Stadium, which have all hosted prestigious matches in the past.
As this match starts, all eyes will be on Rinku Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal, who could play pivotal roles in determining the outcome of this crucial Ranji Trophy encounter.
