Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Mumbai players will wear masks amid pollution concerns during the clash against Delhi

Ongoing construction activities in the area made the air noticeably dusty, requiring players to wear masks during the game. Conditions seemed to affect both teams, with visibility and air quality becoming topics of discussion throughout the day. Delhi, however, managed a respectable performance with the bat, aided in part by favorable batting conditions and despite the challenging environment.

Sanat Sangwan laid a solid foundation for Delhi with a sparkling century, although he received little support from the rest of the batting line-up. With Priyansh Arya and Ayush Badoni away from India A for T20 World Cup warm-up preparations, Delhi’s batting looked relatively weak on paper. That assessment proved accurate as the visitors struggled to build partnerships and keep the scoreboard moving, eventually being bowled out for 221 in the first innings.

Mumbai’s bowlers put in a disciplined performance, led by Mohit Avashi, who claimed a five-wicket haul by dismantling Delhi’s middle order and tail. Tushar Deshpande and Shams Mulani provided excellent support by picking up two wickets.

In response, Mumbai did not have the best start with the bat. Opener Akash Anand was dismissed for four, leaving the hosts at 13/1 at the end of the day’s play. Tushar Deshpande was sent as a night watchman and successfully negotiated the last three deliveries of the day. Mumbai ended Day 1 208 runs behind Delhi, with Deshpande and Akhil Herwadkar unbeaten at the crease.

In terms of standings, Mumbai continue to lead Group D with 30 points from six matches and have registered four wins. Delhi, on the other hand, is in sixth place with nine points from six matches, of which one is a loss and the remaining matches end in a draw. Delhi will look to build on their momentum on Day 2, while Mumbai remain in a comfortable position both in the match and on the points table.

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