Bengal’s quest for a full seven points in the Ranji Trophy reached a thrilling conclusion on Tuesday as Anustup Majumdar’s men delivered a crushing victory over Railways. In a match dominated from start to finish, Bengal recorded an innings-and-120-run triumph, leaving the visitors struggling for answers at every stage. The performance showcased the team’s balance of attacking batting and lethal bowling, with left-arm spinner Shahbaz Ahmed starring with an astonishing seven-wicket haul.
Bengal’s innings of 474 runs was built on strong foundations laid by their top order, who combined technique and aggression to set a commanding platform. Facing a daunting target, Railways could muster just 222 runs in their first innings, forced into a follow-on. The second innings brought no respite: Railways crumbled for a mere 132 runs, with Shahbaz’s spin weaving a web of deception that none of the opposition could escape. Not a single Railways batter managed to cross the 30-run mark, underlining the gulf in class.
Shahbaz’s remarkable figures of 22.5 overs, 56 runs, and seven wickets were complemented by Rahul Hari Prasad’s two wickets and Mohammad Kaif’s single strike. The bowling attack’s clinical precision ensured Bengal were never seriously challenged, and by the morning of the fourth day, victory was inevitable. Railways, who added only 42 runs to their overnight score of 90 for 5, could not prevent Bhargav Merai’s lone effort from falling short.
This win earned Bengal a vital seven points, consolidating their top spot in Group C. The team had previously won both home matches, collecting 12 points, drew against Tripura for one point, and now added another seven from this emphatic away performance. With a total of 20 points from four matches, Bengal’s position in the knockout race looks secure, and the confidence flowing through the squad is palpable.
Under Anustup Majumdar’s calm and tactical leadership, Bengal have blended seasoned campaigners with emerging talents to produce one of the most formidable sides in the tournament. With their combination of experienced batsmen and incisive bowlers, they have shown a ruthless edge that could make them strong contenders for this season’s Ranji Trophy crown.
