Ahmedabad Witnesses High-Voltage Drama as Kerala Snatch Historic First Innings Lead
The Ranji Trophy 2024-25 semi-final between Gujarat and Kerala at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, produced one of the most dramatic moments in domestic cricket history. With the match finely poised, a rare and bizarre dismissal involving a helmet-assisted catch helped Kerala clinch the all-important first innings lead, securing their spot in the Ranji Trophy Final for the first time in history.
Gujarat vs Kerala: A Semi-Final for the Ages
With Gujarat and Kerala locked in a gripping battle for supremacy, the equation was razor-thin—
- Gujarat required just 3 more runs to take the first-innings lead, which would have put them in pole position to qualify for the final.
- Kerala, on the other hand, needed just one final wicket to seal their place in the Ranji Trophy final.
With both teams on edge, what followed was a moment of pure cricketing drama that left fans stunned and players in disbelief.
The Helmet That Changed Kerala’s Destiny
The decisive moment arrived in the 175th over, with Aditya Sarwate bowling. Gujarat’s last man, Arzan Nagwaswalla, attempted a lofted shot but mistimed it completely. The ball struck the helmet of the short-leg fielder before deflecting into the hands of Sachin Baby at slip, who completed the catch.
As the Kerala players erupted in celebration, Gujarat’s dugout was left in shock. The umpires confirmed the dismissal, citing that the ball deflected off the helmet before being legally caught, making it a fair dismissal as per cricket laws.
Understanding the First Innings Lead Rule in Ranji Trophy
Unlike limited-overs formats, Ranji Trophy knockout matches operate under unique rules—
- If a match ends in a draw, the team securing the first-innings lead automatically advances to the next round.
- In this case, Kerala’s slim but crucial lead ensured their qualification into the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 final.
A Moment for the History Books: Kerala’s First-Ever Ranji Trophy Final
With this hard-fought victory, Kerala have now made history by securing a place in the Ranji Trophy final for the first time ever. Their journey to the summit clash has been nothing short of remarkable, marked by resilience, tactical brilliance, and moments of pure drama—none bigger than the “helmet catch” that sealed their fate.
Social Media Erupts Over ‘Helmet Catch’ Drama
Cricket fans, pundits, and former players took to social media to express their amazement at the unusual yet game-changing dismissal. The moment has since gone viral, with clips circulating across platforms, showcasing one of the most unique dismissals in Ranji Trophy history.
1⃣ wicket in hand
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) February 21, 2025
2⃣ runs to equal scores
3⃣ runs to secure a crucial First-Innings Lead
Joy. Despair. Emotions. Absolute Drama! 😮
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/kisimA9o9w#RanjiTrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank | #GUJvKER | #SF1 pic.twitter.com/LgTkVfRH7q
- One fan tweeted: “Never seen anything like this! A helmet assists in a Ranji Trophy semi-final? Unreal scenes in Ahmedabad!”
- Another commented: “The Cricket Gods really wanted Kerala to make it to the final!”
Even the official Ranji Trophy and BCCI handles shared the clip, celebrating Kerala’s extraordinary moment of glory.
What’s Next? Kerala Eyes Their First-Ever Ranji Trophy Title
With a final spot secured, Kerala now shifts focus to the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 final, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final. Given their incredible journey and fighting spirit, they will enter the final full of confidence, ready to script one final chapter in their historic campaign.
Can Kerala complete their fairy-tale run and lift their maiden Ranji Trophy title? The cricketing world eagerly awaits the grand finale of India’s premier domestic tournament.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Final and Kerala’s quest for domestic cricket glory! 🚀🏏
