North Zone secured their place in the Duleep Trophy 2026 semi-finals after defeating West Zone by 52 runs in Bengaluru. Chasing a target of 287, West Zone were bowled out for 234 on the fourth day.
The match swung decisively in North Zone's favour after the dismissal of Ruturaj Gaikwad, whose run-out ended a crucial partnership and triggered a dramatic collapse.
North Zone will now face South Zone in the semi-final from August 30.
Abid Mushtaq Stars With Nine Wickets
Abid Mushtaq was the standout performer for North Zone. The spinner claimed 9 wickets for 99 runs across West Zone's two innings and was named Player of the Match.
On the final morning, Mushtaq took 4 wickets for 60 runs in 22 overs as North Zone completed the victory. Nishant Sindhu also contributed by taking one of the final three wickets.
Gaikwad's Run-Out Changed the Match
West Zone appeared to be in a strong position at 195/3 while chasing 287. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Musheer Khan had put together a crucial 111-run partnership, leaving West Zone needing only 92 runs for victory.
However, Gaikwad was run out for 66, dramatically changing the momentum.
West Zone then lost four wickets for just 25 runs. Musheer Khan, who had played an important role in the chase, was dismissed for 96, falling just short of his century.
West Zone Lose Three Wickets Quickly
West Zone began the fourth day at 220/7, requiring another 67 runs to complete the chase.
Their hopes disappeared quickly as Abid Mushtaq and Nishant Sindhu claimed the remaining three wickets within just 6.3 overs.
West Zone were eventually bowled out for 234, handing North Zone a 52-run victory.
North Zone Set a Target of 287
North Zone scored 251 runs in the first innings before making 222 in their second innings.
West Zone struggled in their first innings, being dismissed for just 187 runs. They improved their batting in the second innings and reached 234, but the target of 287 ultimately proved beyond their reach.
Duleep Trophy 2026: Key Match Highlights
North Zone: 251 & 222
West Zone: 187 & 234
Target: 287 runs
Result: North Zone won by 52 runs
Player of the Match: Abid Mushtaq
Abid Mushtaq's match figures: 9/99
Ruturaj Gaikwad: 66 runs
Musheer Khan: 96 runs
Semi-final: North Zone vs South Zone
Semi-final date: August 30
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