In a record-breaking display during the Ranji Trophy plate match against Arunachal Pradesh on November 14, 2024, Goa batters Snehal Kauthankar and Kashyap Bakhale achieved the highest partnership ever in Ranji Trophy history. Their remarkable 606-run stand for the fourth wicket propelled Goa to a dominant position in the game, earning them a massive 552-run victory over Arunachal Pradesh. This partnership also ranks as the second-highest for any wicket in first-class cricket, falling just 18 runs short of breaking the global record held by Sri Lankan legends Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.
Historic Stand for the Record Books.
Goa’s Kauthankar and Bakhale entered cricketing history by setting the highest-ever partnership in Ranji Trophy. Facing Arunachal Pradesh in Porvorim, the duo’s 606-run stand not only broke the previous Ranji record of 594 runs, held by Swapnil Gugale and Ankit Bawne for Maharashtra against Delhi in the 2016-17 season, but also became a memorable performance in the annals of first-class cricket. Only Sangakkara and Jayawardene’s 624-run partnership for Sri Lanka against South Africa in Colombo in 2006 remains higher, leaving Kauthankar and Bakhale tantalizingly close to achieving a global first-class record.
While records are often broken gradually, Kauthankar and Bakhale’s massive partnership raised the bar significantly. Their synergy and skill over this historic innings demonstrated exceptional patience, precision, and coordination. Cricket analysts believe this could stand as a record for years, adding a new chapter to Goa’s cricketing history and showcasing the Ranji Trophy’s role in producing extraordinary talent.
Snehal Kauthankar’s Third-Fastest Triple Century.
Beyond their partnership achievement, Kauthankar marked an additional milestone by scoring the third-fastest triple century in Ranji Trophy history. Displaying a powerful blend of technique and aggression, he reached his triple century in just 205 balls. This feat places him among the elite few cricketers to score a 300 in record time, adding prestige to his already impressive performance. His ability to accelerate the game while maintaining consistency allowed Goa to put up an extraordinary score and virtually secure their win in a single innings.
Kauthankar’s triple century was a showpiece of fast scoring and stability, qualities that kept Goa on the offensive throughout the innings. Comparisons are already being made with some of the finest Ranji innings, as his performance is now in the top tier of fastest triple hundreds in Indian first-class cricket.
Meanwhile, Kashyap Bakhale complemented Kauthankar with the ninth-fastest triple century in first-class cricket, achieved in 269 balls. Together, they formed a lethal batting combination that wore down the Arunachal Pradesh bowlers. The duo’s aggression ensured Goa reached a monumental total, creating an insurmountable target for Arunachal Pradesh.
A Crushing Victory for Goa.
The match between Goa and Arunachal Pradesh unfolded as a one-sided affair from the beginning. Arunachal Pradesh, batting first, struggled immensely, collapsing for just 84 runs in their first innings. Goa’s bowlers dominated with precision, laying the foundation for a commanding Goa response.
Kauthankar and Bakhale took the crease with Arunachal Pradesh’s low total as a backdrop, allowing them to approach their innings with confidence and ambition. By the time Goa declared at 727 runs for three wickets, they had accumulated a 643-run lead, leaving Arunachal Pradesh with an uphill battle. When Arunachal Pradesh came to bat in their second innings, they continued to face severe difficulty, ultimately being bowled out for 91 runs. This resounding win gave Goa a victory margin of 552 runs, one of the most comprehensive in recent Ranji Trophy memory.
This victory not only showcased Goa’s batting depth but also highlighted the team’s strong bowling lineup. Both batting and bowling departments worked seamlessly together, reflecting the discipline and preparation the Goa team has developed in recent years. The combination of individual brilliance and collective teamwork helped secure a historic win that is likely to boost Goa’s morale as they continue in the tournament.
Breaking Records and Nearing Global Legends.
Kauthankar and Bakhale’s 606-run partnership sits among the top partnerships in cricketing history. The highest partnerships in first-class cricket include:
– 624 – Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene, Sri Lanka vs. South Africa, Colombo (2006)
– 606 – Kashyap Bakhale and Snehal Kauthankar, Goa vs. Arunachal Pradesh, Porvorim (2024)
– 594 – Swapnil Gugale and Ankit Bawne, Maharashtra vs. Delhi, Mumbai (2016-17)
– 580 – Rafatullah Mohmand and Aamer Sajjad, WPDA vs. Sui Southern Gas, Sheikhupura (1946-47)
– 577 – Vijay Hazare and Gul Mohammad, Baroda vs. Holkar, Baroda (1997)
While Kauthankar and Bakhale did not surpass Sangakkara and Jayawardene’s legendary stand of 624 runs, they came remarkably close. Their accomplishment has prompted fans and analysts alike to draw comparisons with these iconic players, underscoring the significance of their achievement.
Goa’s Rise in Domestic Cricket.
The exceptional display by Kauthankar and Bakhale has intensified discussions around Goa’s emerging prominence in Indian domestic cricket. The Ranji Trophy, often a proving ground for future international players, could see more talent coming from Goa if performances like these become a norm. Their record-setting partnership has given Goa an unprecedented highlight, and their achievements have caught the attention of national selectors, who may see this as a testament to Goa’s improving cricketing infrastructure.
This historic partnership and emphatic win also serve as an inspiration for other regional teams, proving that record-breaking achievements are possible with dedication, skill, and a strategic approach. The impact of Kauthankar and Bakhale’s performance may extend beyond this single game, potentially shifting the competitive dynamics of the Ranji Trophy.