Keralarich9's Salman Nizar takes a blow on his helmet before they scripted history. Photo: BCCI Kerala's Salman Nizar takes a blow on his helmet before they scripted history. Photo: BCCI

Kerala and Gujarat have been engaged in an enthralling encounter in the semi-final clash that is being played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Fridayrich9, February 21. (Day 5 Blog | More Cricket News)

Sachin Baby and co are all but through to their first-ever Ranji Trophy final in their 74-year history, after claiming the first-innings lead against Gujarat. Kerala sealed a two-run lead in the morning session on day 5 of this dramatic semi-final clash against Gujarat.

Needing two runs to level the scores, Gujarat batter Arzan Nagwaswalla was left to face Aditya Sarwate after the latter claimed two wickets in the morning session. Sarwate tossed up the delivery, tempting the Gujarat batter to go big but in the process, the batter's ball struck the helmet of short-leg fielder Salman Nizar, before ballooning in the air.

Sachin Baby caught the delivery in the slip cordon,pinaswin88 casino as Kerala players jumped for joy.

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1⃣ wicket in hand 2⃣ runs to equal scores 3⃣ runs to secure a crucial First-Innings Lead Joy. Despair. Emotions. Absolute Drama! 😮 Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/kisimA9o9w#RanjiTrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank | #GUJvKER | #SF1 pic.twitter.com/LgTkVfRH7q

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) February 21, 2025

What Does Rule Say

As per Ranji Trophy rules, a team taking the first-innings lead in a knockout matches are declared the winner, despite the game ending in a draw. If Gujarat had taken the lead, meaning they would have sealed their spot in the finals instead of Kerala.

But drag-flicker Harmanpreet said the squad has done a lot of high-intensity training and the confidence in the side continues to grow.

Kerala, who last made the semifinals in 2018-19 after making their Ranji debut back in 1957, are likely to face Vidarbha in the summit clash.