THOUGH they might be the most experienced team in the Plate Group with seven teams from North-East region, Vidarbha cannot relax and be complacent even after scoring three wins in three games in three days in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Twenty20 cricket tournament. After Sunday’s break Vidarbha take on Manipur on Monday at the ACA Stadium, Mangalagiri, Vijayawada in afternoon game of the day at the venue starting at 1.00 pm. There are chances that at least one more team in the group may win all its matches and score full points. While there are six teams each in all of the five Elite Groups, there are eight teams in the Plate Group. To have level playing field, the BCCI has limited number of matches to be played for each of the Plate Group team to five. Vidarbha are not drawn against Tripura and Mizoram. Tripura have also won all their matches and have scored same number of points (12) as Vidarbha. Presently, Vidarbha are on top as they have better net run rate (+3.088) as compared to that of Tripura (+2.133). And that is the reason why Vidarbha must not take it easy.

 

They will have to win both of their remaining matches handsomely if they wish to top the group and qualify for one of the three pre-quarterfinals. Winners of each Elite Group directly qualify for the quarters while the five second placed teams will be joined by Plate winners. Relegated from the Elite Group to the Plate Group this season, Vidarbha have performed as per the script till now. Batsmen have been complemented well by India pacer Umesh Yadav-led bowling unit. His mere presence gives Vidarbha attack those sharp teeth.

 

In their last match against Meghalaya, Yadav was tough to score off as the bowler conceded just ten runs form his four overs and cleaning up one batsman. He can also use the long handle to good effect as was exhibited in one of the earlier matches. Seasoned spin duo of Akshays — offie Wakhare and left-arm Karnewar have played their part well. Though age is not on his side as far as the shortest format is concerned, professional player Ganesh Satish lend that extra stability to the batting line-up. His presence has a calming influence on young big-hitters. So far so good, it has been for Vidarbha and to make cut for the knock-outs, they must not lower their guard.