Bengaluru, Aug 31 (UNI) Ayush Badoni’s masterclass with the bat stole the limelight as North Zone stormed into the semifinals of the Duleep Trophy 2025, following a hard-fought draw against East Zone at the BCCI CEG Ground here today.
The result, courtesy of North’s commanding first-innings lead, sets up a tantalizing semifinal clash against South Zone on September 4 at the same venue.
Badoni, the young and fearless middle-order batsman, produced a career-defining innings, remaining unbeaten on 200 as North Zone amassed a mammoth 658/4 declared in their second innings. His double century was a blend of composure, timing, and audacious strokeplay, with each boundary and six demoralizing the East Zone bowlers. “It feels incredible to reach this landmark, but the focus was always on giving North Zone a strong position,” Badoni reflected after the match.
The day had started with North Zone already in a strong position after posting 405 in the first innings. East Zone had struggled against disciplined bowling, managing only 230, with all-rounder Mohammed Nabi the only bright spark, claiming a five-wicket haul (5/28).
Skipper Ankit Kumar led from the front, narrowly missing a double century himself with 198. Yash Dhull (133) contributed a majestic century, while Kanhaiya Wadhawan and Nishant Sindhu injected brisk cameos, maintaining the scoreboard momentum. Together, they stretched North Zone’s overall lead to a staggering 833 runs.
Despite the overwhelming advantage, North Zone batted deep into the final day, denying East Zone any chance to stage a comeback. When the innings was declared, East Zone had little time to respond, ensuring the match ended in a stalemate.
North Zone’s march into the semifinals is a testament to their dominant batting display and strategic acumen. The semifinal showdown against South Zone on September 4 promises high drama, with Badoni likely to be the focal point once again.
Scores:
North Zone: 405 & 658/4 decl. (Ankit Kumar 198, Ayush Badoni 200\\*, Yash Dhull 133)
East Zone: 230 (Virat Singh 69; Nabi 5/28)
Result: Match drawn; North Zone advanced on first-innings lead
Next fixture: North Zone vs South Zone, Semifinal, Duleep Trophy, September 4, BCCI CEG Ground
