In a gripping Vijay Hazare Trophy semifinal clash at the SCA Stadium in Rajkot, Baba Indrajith of Tamil Nadu emerged as the epitome of resilience and determination. The seasoned batter showcased a remarkable fighting spirit by walking out to bat with a taped mouth, concealing an injury sustained during a slip in the bathroom during the inning break. Tamil Nadu faced a challenging chase of 294 against Haryana, and Indrajith’s entrance at 53 for three added a layer of drama to the contest.
Despite the adversity, Indrajith crafted a gritty innings, contributing 64 runs off 71 balls, adorned with five fours. However, his courageous effort couldn’t steer Tamil Nadu to victory, as they fell short by 63 runs. Indrajith’s commitment to the game, even after receiving medical attention in the 16th over, left spectators in awe.
The bizarre sight of Indrajith with a taped mouth was a testament to his dedication and perseverance. In a post-match social media update, he revealed the extent of his injury. Despite the setback, Indrajith expressed disappointment at not being able to guide his team across the finish line.
“Thank you all for your concern and wishes. I slipped and fell very badly when I stepped out of the ice bath mid-inning. I fell face-on in the bathroom and was shaken up quite a bit. I was bleeding with a deep cut on the upper lip and the inside of the lip. Managed to bat somehow, but was gutted to not cross the finish line for the team. I just went to the hospital and got my stitches done. I should be back soon. Thank you once again,” Indrajith posted on Instagram.
Himanshu Rana and Anshul Kamboj propel Haryana to the finals
Previously instrumental in Tamil Nadu’s quarterfinal triumph over Mumbai with an unbeaten century, Baba Indrajith had been the team’s leading run scorer throughout the tournament, accumulating over 270 runs, including a century and fifty in seven innings.
However, Haryana, propelled by Himanshu Rana‘s century and Anshul Kamboj’s four-wicket haul, secured victory and a spot in the Vijay Hazare Trophy final. Rana’s unbeaten 116 and Kamboj’s career-best figures of 4/30 orchestrated Tamil Nadu’s downfall, limiting them to 230 in 47.1 overs.
As Haryana advances to their maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy final, the cricketing world applauds Indrajith’s courageous innings, even in the face of adversity. His commitment to the game and fighting spirit are testaments to the indomitable nature of sportsmanship.
