Harsh Dubey creates history with 9-wicket haul in Ranji Trophy, strengthens India Test Case

Harsh Dubey delivered a record-breaking performance on the opening day of the Ranji Trophy elite Group A match between Vidarbha and Madhya Pradesh in Nagpur on Monday, November 2. The left-arm spinner claimed nine wickets for 53 runs as Madhya Pradesh were bowled out for 209, putting Vidarbha in a strong position.

After Nachiket Bhute took the opening wicket for Vidarbha, Dubey dominated the innings by dismissing the remaining nine batters.  His remarkable spell included the wickets of Rajat Patidar and Saranash Jain, who, according to the reports, made his India Test debut against Sri Lanka in August.

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The performance adds to Dubey's growing reputation as one of Vidarbha's key players and strengthens his case for a future opportunity in India's Test setup.

Harsh Dubey creates history in Ranji trophy

Dubey became the first Vidarbha bowler to take nine wickets in a Ranji Trophy innings, according to the supplied report. His figures of 9/53 also set a new benchmark for the best bowling performance against Madhya Pradesh in the competition.

The previous record in both categories was held by Arun Ogiral, who took 8/39 against Madhya Pradesh in Nagpur in 1967.

Dubey's figures are also among the best recorded in the history of the Ranji Trophy. He is the 30th player to take nine or more wickets in a single innings of the competition.

Best bowling figures for Vidarbha in first-class cricket

Player        Bowling figures      Opponent           Year

Harsh Dubey      9/53         Madhya Pradesh      2026 
Arun Ogiral        8/39         Madhya Pradesh      1967 
Pritam Gandhe   8/61           Rajasthan         1997

Harsh Dubey's push for India test selection

Dubey has continued to attract attention through his performances in domestic cricket. He was previously called up to India's Test squad, but Manav Suthar was preferred in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja, according to the supplied report.

The left-arm spinner enjoyed a standout 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, claiming 69 wickets as Vidarbha went on to win the title. That tally was reported as the highest number of wickets taken by a bowler in a single season of the competition.

Alongside his bowling, Dubey also offers batting depth, making him a useful all-round option for Vidarbha.

Harsh Dubey in IPL

Dubey has also featured for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League after joining the franchise as an injury replacement in 2025.

According to the report, he has taken 13 wickets in 11 IPL matches. His domestic record and experience in the IPL add to his credentials as he continues to push for a bigger role in Indian cricket.