Proud moment for Kerala cricket: Chief Jayesh George on historic Ranji final

Dubai: For Jayesh George, the president of Kerala Cricket Association, the long wait is over. After 68 years of anticipation, Kerala have finally reached the Ranji Trophy final. A journey that began with humble dreams has now reached a defining moment in the state’s cricketing history, and George couldn’t be prouder.

For George, the significance of Kerala’s maiden Ranji final berth goes beyond just the win — it represents years of hard work, vision, and belief in a team that has steadily risen to the occasion.

“This is a proud moment for Kerala cricket,” George shared, his voice filled with emotion. “History has been created, but it’s the result of a collective effort — the players, the coaching staff, and everyone involved in the journey. This achievement isn’t just for this team, but for everyone who has believed in us over the years.”

The semi-final against Gujarat, where Kerala secured a two-run lead to clinch their place in the final, saw George’s heart race as he watched from Kerala. “My heart is fine, and I don’t need to go for a check-up,” he joked, reflecting the tension he felt. “I was following the match from Kerala as I didn’t want to put the boys under pressure. Hence, I avoided travelling to Ahmedabad.”

Despite the close call, George was full of praise for the players’ resilience. “We were in one of the toughest pools, and credit goes to coach Amay Khurasia and the boys for fighting hard and winning crucial moments,” he said. “We were brave, and fortune favoured us.”

In the semi-final, Kerala showed remarkable composure under pressure. After electing to bat first, they found themselves in a tricky situation, losing half their side for 206 runs. However, skipper Sachin Baby’s 69 and a brilliant unbeaten 177 from Mohammed Azharuddeen, combined with a crucial half-century from Salman Nizar, helped Kerala post a formidable 457. Gujarat responded with resilience of their own, with Priyank Panchal scoring a valiant 148, but it was Kerala’s left-arm spinner Aditya Sarwate who stole the show on the final day.

Sarwate’s match-winning spell, claiming four wickets, including the vital dismissal of Jaymeet Patel, ensured Kerala’s narrow but historic victory. As the match concluded with Kerala on 114/4, the players and fans celebrated their team’s unyielding spirit, which had earned them a well-deserved spot in the final.

The KCA president also credited the infrastructure investments made over the years as key to Kerala’s success. “There was a time when our top players had to play in Tamil Nadu because we didn’t have good grounds,” George recalled. “Now, we have our own venues, turf wickets, and an academy to train players. That has made a huge difference. The Kerala Cricket League has also played a big role, with some of the boys coming through that system.”

Now, with Vidarbha standing in their way, Kerala face their final hurdle from February 26. The team has four days to prepare for what could be another historic chapter in their cricketing journey. The stakes have never been higher, but for George and the players, the excitement and pride of reaching the final are unmatched.

As the state celebrates this remarkable achievement, one thing is clear: Kerala’s cricketing future is bright, and this Ranji Trophy final is just the beginning of a new era for the sport in the state.