Odisha batting collapses for 100 runs against Gujarat's bowling

Odisha's campaign in the Vijay Hazare Trophy hit a significant roadblock on Tuesday as they suffered a crushing 233-run defeat against a dominant Gujarat side. Playing at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, the Odisha cricket team struggled to find their footing in both departments, eventually being bundled out for just 100 runs while chasing a steep target of 334.

The day started on a positive note for Odisha when captain Biplab Samantray won the toss and elected to field. However, the Gujarat openers quickly took control of the game. Urvil Patel (64) and Aarya Desai (54) provided a solid foundation with a 118-run opening stand. The momentum was carried forward by Ahaan Poddar (64) and a brisk 73 from India international Axar Patel. A late flourish from Saurav Chauhan, who remained unbeaten on 44 off just 26 balls, propelled Gujarat to a massive total of 333/6 in their 50 overs.

While Govinda Poddar and Biplab Samantray managed to pick up a few wickets, the Odisha bowling attack generally struggled to contain the run rate.

The chase proved to be a nightmare for the Odisha batters. Gujarat’s captain Chintan Gaja produced a masterclass in pace bowling, tearing through the top and middle order. Odisha found themselves in immediate trouble, losing wickets at regular intervals. By the 11th over, half the team was back in the pavilion with the scoreboard reading a dismal 41/5.

Only four Odisha players reached double digits, with Biplab Samantray's 22 being the highest score of the innings. Chintan Gaja finished with remarkable figures of 6/31, earning him the Player of the Match award. Arzan Nagwaswalla and Japagnya Bhatt chipped in with two wickets each to wrap up the innings in just 28.1 overs. This heavy loss leaves Odisha with much to reflect on as they continue their Group D journey in the tournament.