The Vijay Hazare Trophy semifinal witnessed a batting masterclass from Aman Mokhade, whose unbeaten 138 steered Vidarbha to a convincing 6-wicket win over Karnataka, securing their final berth amid cheers from a packed stadium.
Karnataka batted first and aimed high, but Vidarbha’s bowlers had other plans. Early blows left them reeling at 80/4. Nikin Jose’s counter-attacking 55 revived hopes, complemented by tail-end hitting to reach 264/9. Yet, Vidarbha’s fielding brilliance – sharp catches and direct hits – kept pressure on.
Chasing 265, Vidarbha lost openers cheaply but Mokhade’s arrival changed everything. The 25-year-old played with composure, picking gaps and punishing loose balls. His stand of 92 with Shorey and unfinished 78-run alliance with Wadkar dismantled Karnataka’s bowling.
Mokhade’s knock featured classic cover drives and innovative ramps, reaching his ton with a six. Victory was sealed in the 47th over. For Vidarbha, this is redemption after past heartbreaks. Mokhade’s rise signals a bright future for Indian domestic cricket.