Rain hampers Day 1 of Ranji tie

Persistent showers wash out opening day’s play between Mumbai and Baroda

Mumbai:

The opening day’s play of the Ranji Trophy match between 41-time champions Mumbai and Baroda was washed out without a ball being bowled due to persistent showers here on Thursday. Overnight rain had left the Brabourne Stadium ground soggy and unfit for play.

The umpires inspected the ground at 9 am and decided that play would not be possible, with more rain forecast for the day.

Mumbai, who won the title last season, are fielding a young team this year, with several of their senior players, including Ajinkya Rahane and Shardul Thakur, away on national duty.

Baroda, on the other hand, are led by India discard Krunal Pandya and also have experienced campaigners like Yusuf Pathan and Deepak Hooda in their ranks.

The match is now scheduled to start on Friday, with the toss to be held at 9 am.