NEW DELHI: Maharashtra had a disastrous start to their Ranji Trophy 2025/26 campaign on Wednesday. Facing Kerala at the Green Field Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, their top order collapsed badly after the hosts chose to bowl first on a pitch that offered good help to the seamers.

The batting lineup fell apart quickly, as Maharashtra were left struggling at 5 for 4 within the first four overs. Kerala’s pace attack was sharp and disciplined, putting the visitors under pressure right from the start.

The early damage was done by pacer MD Nidheesh, who trapped Prithvi Shaw—playing his first match for Maharashtra—for a four-ball duck. He then removed Siddhesh Veer on the very next delivery, leaving Maharashtra in deep trouble.

Mohammed Shami hits back at selectors: “If I can play Ranji, I’m fit for India”

The slide continued when Basil NP struck with his first ball to dismiss Arshin Kulkarni for another duck. Captain Ankit Bawne was also sent back soon after, as Basil’s sharp bounce rattled the stumps to make it four ducks in the innings.

From there, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Jalaj Saxena worked hard to steady things. The experienced duo showed patience and composure to guide Maharashtra to 81 for 5 at lunch after 26 overs. Gaikwad was unbeaten on 35, while Saxena supported him with 29.

For Kerala, Nidheesh was the star of the morning with figures of 3 for 27, while Basil picked up 2 for 41. The home side ended the first session well on top, leaving Maharashtra with plenty of work to do in their opening match of the season.