Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) new acquisition, Khaleel Ahmed, has made headlines ahead of the IPL 2025 season with a stellar performance in the Ranji Trophy. The left-arm pacer, released by Delhi Capitals before the IPL auction and snapped up by CSK for INR 4.8 crore, showcased his brilliance by taking a five-wicket haul for Rajasthan in their clash against Vidarbha at Jaipur’s K.L. Saini Stadium.
Khaleel Ahmed Leads Rajasthan’s Bowling Attack with a Fifer
Rajasthan’s bowling unit, led by Khaleel Ahmed, delivered a dominant performance against Vidarbha. Khaleel dismantled the opposition’s batting order, claiming five crucial wickets, including key players Dhruv Shorey, Aman Mokhade, Karun Nair, Yash Rathod, and Harsh Dubey. The wickets of Shorey and Nair were particularly significant as both batsmen entered the match in fine form.
Khaleel’s outstanding bowling figures read: 15 overs, 5 maidens, 37 runs, and 5 wickets, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 2.5. His fiery spell put Rajasthan in a commanding position and serves as a promising sign for CSK, who will rely on his skills in the upcoming IPL season.
Vidarbha Bundled Out for 165; Rajasthan Trails by 64 Runs After Day One
Vidarbha, batting first, managed to post a modest total of 165 runs, with contributions from Karun Nair (39), Akshay Wadkar (34), and Nachiket Bhute (34). Rajasthan’s bowlers dominated the innings, with Khaleel Ahmed taking five wickets, Manav Suthar grabbing three, and Kukna Ajay Singh chipping in with two.
In response, Rajasthan closed day one at 101/5. Mahipal Lomror played a resilient knock, remaining unbeaten on 44, while Samarpit Joshi supported him at the crease. Vidarbha’s Shubham Kapse led their bowling effort with three wickets, while Nachiket Bhute, Aditya Thakare, and Harsh Dubey picked up one wicket each.
Rajasthan trails by 64 runs and will look to capitalize on their strong bowling performance on day two. With Khaleel Ahmed in red-hot form, CSK fans have every reason to be optimistic about his impact in IPL 2025.
