The Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Plate Group clash between Meghalaya and Manipur is moving steadily towards a draw, as both teams enter the final day with only a sharp bowling effort capable of changing the script. Meghalaya ended Day 3 with a lead of 137 runs after reaching 49/1 in their second innings.
Earlier on Tuesday, Manipur resumed their first innings at 180/4 and reached 342 before being bowled out. Meghalaya had posted 430 in their first innings, securing an 88-run advantage. Manipur’s overnight pair, Bashid and Priyojit, added valuable runs but could not convert their starts into big scores. Bashid fell for 64 after a sharp run-out by Kishan Lyngdoh, while Priyojit was trapped LBW by Chengkam Sangma for 71.
Jotin Pheiroijam provided stability with an impressive 86 before another run-out, this time by Akash Chaudhary. For Meghalaya, Chengkam delivered the best spell with 2/50 from 18 overs. Akash took 2/68, while Aryan Borah claimed 2/83, keeping Manipur from overtaking the first-innings deficit.
Meghalaya then faced a brief batting session before stumps. They lost Arien Bonchang Sangma early for 7, but Arpit Bhatewara (16*) and guest player Ajay Duhan (25*) ensured a safe end to the day.
As the teams prepare for the final day on Wednesday, the match stands in a delicate balance. Meghalaya carry a decent cushion but need disciplined bowling if they hope to force a result. Manipur, on the other hand, will rely on patience and resilience to secure a draw unless Meghalaya produce a breakthrough spell that changes the momentum.
