Jaiswal, who scored his first first-class century in the semi-final against Uttarakhand, was a 41-time Ranji Trophy winner who had to face a failure in the top rankings.
Jaiswal’s eyes sparkled as he challenged UP’s formidable attack and hit 15 fours in 100 off 227 balls. Batting first, Mumbai lost in-form skipper Prithvi Shaw (0) in the first over. On the third ball of the day, he became the first victim of left-arm fast bowler Yash Dayal, who was caught by Priyam Garg.
The Uttar Pradesh bowlers topped the first session as they remained on the fifth stump line. Fast bowler Shivam Mavi was rewarded for trapping Arman Jaffer (10) for 24/2. After that, Jaiswal added 63 runs with Suved Parkar (32) who scored his first double century in his debut in the semi-finals.
However, Dayalne broke the partnership once again by dismissing Parkar who hit four fours in his quiet game. Parkar chased Dayal’s wide ball and gave a sitter to Saurabh Kumar at the backward point as Mumbai lost the third wicket for 87 runs.
Offensive batsman Sarfaraz Khan (40) rebuilt Mumbai’s innings with Jaiswal. The duo put on an 87-run stand for the fourth wicket with a combination of aggression and caution as they disappointed the UP bowlers.
Earth Shaw. Out
Sarfaraz, a right-handed batsman who hit five fours, could not turn his start into a big score and became the first victim of offspinner Karan Sharma. After Sarfaraz’s dismissal, Jaiswal got a capable partner in wicketkeeper Hardik Tamor (51 not out), who played his role perfectly.
Tamore, who was included in the playing XI in place of the injured and experienced wicketkeeper Aditya Tara, reiterated his confidence in him. However, Jaiswal, who had a tough opening day, was dismissed immediately after reaching three figures.
He was the second victim of Karan Sharma as Mumbai lost by 233 runs. Tamor and all-rounder Shams Mulani (10 not out) then hit six fours and a maximum of 74 off 74 balls to ensure Mumbai’s unbeaten run. Lost more wickets and remained unbeaten on wickets. For UP, Dayal (2/35) and Sharma (2/39) were selected as bowlers.
Short Score:
Mumbai 260/5 (Yashaswi Jaiswal 100, Hardik Tamor not out 51; Yash Dayal 2/35).
