Down with dengue, chikungunya: Chahal says after missing SMAT final

Ishan Kishan steers Jharkhand to comfortable win as Haryana feel Chahal’s absence

Jharkhand beat Haryana by 69 runs in a match defined by Ishan Kishan’s power-hitting and the absence of leg-spinner Chahal, who was ruled out before the game. Haryana’s attack looked short of options without their frontline spinner, and the visitors were unable to control a strong Jharkhand batting display.

Match summary

Jharkhand posted a challenging total after a strong performance at the top, with Ishan Kishan leading the charge. Chasing, Haryana never really got on top of the required rate as their bowling struggled to make breakthroughs at crucial moments.

Ishan Kishan makes the difference

Ishan Kishan played the innings that turned the game. His aggression and timing helped Jharkhand build momentum and set a target that proved too steep for Haryana. Kishan’s form under pressure was the central reason Jharkhand finished with a defendable score.

Haryana’s bowling shortfall without Chahal

With leg-spinner Chahal unavailable, Haryana missed a go-to wicket-taking option in the middle overs. The attack appeared less varied and struggled to stifle partnerships, allowing Jharkhand’s batters to rotate strike and accelerate when needed.

  • Missing a quality leg-spinner exposed a gap in Haryana’s plans.
  • Opposition batters found easier scoring opportunities through the middle overs.
  • Haryana’s fielding and bowling depth were tested and found wanting on the day.

Looking ahead

The defeat will prompt Haryana to rethink their bowling combinations, especially if Chahal remains unavailable. For Jharkhand, the win is a morale booster and a reminder of how influential a single in-form batter like Kishan can be in shaping a result.

Both teams will be keen to adjust quickly — Jharkhand to maintain momentum, and Haryana to plug the hole left by Chahal before their next outing.

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