Vijay Hazare Trophy: Harshal Bowls Haryana to Title against Rajasthan

In a historic turn of events at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, Haryana emerged victorious in the 2023 Vijay Hazare Trophy, securing their first-ever title with a 30-run triumph over Rajasthan in the summit clash. The victory marked one of the greatest campaigns in Indian domestic cricket history, as Haryana showcased their dominance by remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament.

Harshal Patel’s Masterstroke

Haryana, posting a total of 287/8 in 50 overs, faced a formidable challenge from Rajasthan. At 201/4, Rajasthan seemed poised for victory, with Abhijeet Tomar (106 off 129 balls) and Kunal Singh Rathore (79 off 65 balls) steering the team towards the target. However, Harshal Patel showcased his skill, delivering a spell that included three crucial wickets for 47 runs in 9 overs. His variations in pace dismantled Rajasthan’s batting lineup and he played a pivotal role in restricting them to 257 in 48 overs.

Sumit Kumar Shines as Player of the Match and Series

Sumit Kumar, the all-round, proved to be the unsung hero for Haryana. With figures of 3/34 in 6 overs, he dismantled Rajasthan’s top order and his quickfire 28 not out off 16 balls bolstered Haryana’s innings. Sumit Kumar’s outstanding all-round performance earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ and ‘Player of the Series’ awards. Scoring 183 runs at a strike rate of over 100 and taking 18 wickets in 10 games, Sumi Kumar’s contribution was instrumental in Haryana’s triumph.

Ashok Menaria’s Strategic Leadership

Haryana’s skipper, Ashok Menaria, showcased excellent leadership skills both with the bat and in managing his resources. Opting to bat first, Ankit Kumar (88 off 91 balls) and Menaria (70 off 96 balls) set the stage with a crucial partnership of 124 runs for the third wicket. Menaria’s strategic decision to bring in Harshal Patel during a critical phase proved to be a masterstroke. Menaria’s composed approach, both as a batsman and captain, played a key role in Haryana securing their first senior national trophy in 32 years.

Key Moments of the Match

The early blows by all-rounder Sumit Kumar, reducing Rajasthan to 12 for 3, set the tone for Haryana’s dominance. Despite a valiant effort by Abhijeet Tomar and Kunal Singh Rathore, Haryana’s bowlers, led by Harshal Patel, seized control in the crucial moments. Kunal Singh Rathore’s aggressive innings of 79 off 65 balls kept Rajasthan in the hunt until cramps and Harshal Patel’s second spell titled the balance in Haryana’s favor.

Important Questions Related to Exams

Q1. Who emerged victorious in the 2023 Vijay Hazare Trophy final?

Sol. Haryana secured their first-ever title with a 30-run triumph over Rajasthan.

Q2. What was the key moment that set the tone for Haryana’s dominance in the final?

Sol. Early blows by all-rounder Sumit Kumar, reducing Rajasthan to 12 for 3, established Haryana’s control.

Q3. Who played a pivotal role in dismantling Rajasthan’s batting lineup with a spell of 3 wickets for 47 runs in 9 overs?

Sol. Harshal Patel showcased his skill with a game-changing spell.

Q4. What was the total posted by Haryana, in the final and how did they face Rajasthan’s challenge?

Sol. Haryana posted a total of 287/8 in 50 overs, facing a formidable challenge from Rajasthan at 201/4.

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