On Day 4 of the 2025 Irani Cup, Anshul Kamboj delivered a brilliant four-wicket haul, yet Vidarbha remained firmly in command of the match against Rest of India, reducing their opponents to 30/2, still over 330 runs in arrears. Cricbuzz
The day’s action showcased exactly why first-class cricket is as much about resilience and timing as it is about single heroics. While Kamboj’s burst reminded everyone of how one player can turn a moment, Vidarbha’s overall consistency and healthy first-innings cushion kept them in the driver’s seat.
Let’s dive deeper into how Day 4 unfolded, what Kamboj’s efforts tell us (and don’t tell us), and what lies ahead in this high-stakes battle.
Day 4 Unfolded: Drama, Resistance & Strategic Chessplay
Morning: Vidarbha’s Second Innings Under Pressure
Vidarbha began the day at 96/2, with hopes to extend their lead before declaring. But disaster struck early: Kamboj removed Dhruv Shorey and Yash Rathod in quick succession, applying immediate pressure on the home side. Cricbuzz
The wickets triggered jitters — one wondered whether RoI could claw their way back. Soon after, Harsh Dubey fell for 29, opening the door for a collapse somewhere. However, Vidarbha’s middle order showed grit, and a few partnerships steadied the ship. Cricbuzz
Eventually, Vidarbha were all out for 232, giving them a combined two-innings score of 342 and 232, for a match total of 574. Cricbuzz+2Cricbuzz+2
Afternoon (or What Remained): RoI Begin Their Chase, Lose Early Wickets
With limited overs left after Vidarbha’s declaration, Rest of India dived into their chase but lost both openers — Abhimanyu Easwaran (for 17) and Aryan Juyal (for 6) — before stumps. Cricbuzz+1
That left RoI at a precarious 30/2, still needing 331 more runs to pull off the improbable. The stage is set: Vidarbha need to close one or two more wickets tomorrow, while RoI must weather early blows and mount a massive fightback.
Context & Backdrop: Why This Match Matters
Irani Cup’s Prestige & Stakes
The Irani Cup is traditionally contested between the reigning Ranji Trophy champions (here, Vidarbha) and a composite Rest of India team. It’s a symbolic “champion vs best of rest” fixture, and performances here often influence selectors’ eyes and careers. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
Vidarbha earned this right by winning the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy. Their performance in this match is as much about defending that title as it is about reinforcing their dominance in domestic cricket culture. Wikipedia+1
RoI, meanwhile, are fielding a team of hot talents and hopefuls. Getting the better of Vidarbha here would be a massive prestige and bragging rights boost.
What Kamboj’s Four-Wicket Haul Indicates (And Doesn’t)
What It Shows
- Skill & Execution in Spells
Kamboj’s ability to pick up crucial wickets in a tense stage underscores his bowling craft. To have removed multiple top-to-middle batters under duress speaks to nerves of steel. Cricbuzz - Threat from RoI’s Attack Depth
It highlights that RoI do have bowlers capable of breakthroughs. Even if Vidarbha are ahead, they aren’t invincible. - Potential for Late Match Shifts
If RoI can stamp momentum early in the final day, Kamboj’s spell gives them belief. Bowling attacks can turn matches in a session.
What It Doesn’t Change
- Batting Deficit & Pressure
No matter how good Kamboj is, RoI start Day 5 still trailing significantly. The margin is still enormous. Cricbuzz+1 - Vidarbha’s Overall Control
Their first-innings lead (342 vs 214) gave them a buffer. Kamboj’s effort, while laudable, was more of a ripple than a tide turn. Cricbuzz+2Wikipedia+2 - Requirement of Sustained Pressure
One good spell won’t win the match. RoI must string partnerships, resist collapse, and possibly use the pitch conditions cleverly.
Key Battles & Storylines to Watch on Day 5
- Vidarbha’s Front-line Attack vs RoI Lower Order
Will Vidarbha’s bowlers pick up the remaining 8 wickets? Or can RoI’s tail wag under pressure? - RoI’s Recovery Options
Can a batter anchor a fightback from early wickets? Does anyone have the temperament to take on the track in late-day conditions? - Pitch Behavior & Wear
On Day 5, the pitch often breaks up; turn or variable bounce may favor spinners. Who capitalizes? - Mental Pressure & Mistakes
In such situations, one loose shot or misfield can cost large. RoI can’t afford brain fades. - Time & Weather
If play is lost or truncated, RoI’s task becomes harder. They need daylight and overs more than anything.
What Vidarbha Must Do to Seal It
- Strike Early: Use the second new ball or initial overs to remove the remaining batters quickly.
- Maintain Discipline: Don’t leak easy runs; force RoI to take risks.
- Support Fielding – No Slips: In pressure matches, every catch counts.
- Back Their Spinners: As the pitch wears, spin could become decisive.
- Manage Game Tempo: Don’t rush. Let RoI’s desperation do the work.
Broader Implications & Takeaway
This Irani Cup clash is more than just a match — it’s a showcase of domestic cricket strength charts. Vidarbha, through consistent performance, are asserting themselves not just as regional giants but as a proving ground for national selectors. RoI, assembled from the best across states, must prove depth in challenge and character.
Kamboj’s four-wicket heroics will be remembered, particularly if RoI manage a comeback. But in matches like this, it’s not single spells but sustained pressure, cumulative advantage, and resilience that win. Vidarbha have the upper hand going into Day 5, and barring a collapse or magic show, they’re in the driver’s seat.
