Change in strategy pays dividends for Nidheesh

There was an evident difference in strategy as Kerala pacer M.D. Nidheesh began proceedings on the final day of the Ranji Trophy match against Goa here on Sunday.

Nidheesh, along with his new-ball partner N.P. Basil, operated fuller compared to the first innings. The change in approach got them the rewards as the two claimed four wickets in the opening hour, paving the way for Kerala’s nine-wicket win.

“I tried using the width of the crease, often going wide. But primarily, I tried to bowl fuller as there were some footmarks up front. We were hoping for something different to happen by doing that, and it did,” said Nidheesh, who ended the day with his ninth First Class fife-for.

“There was an extra motivation for us to win, and luckily, we got two early wickets. It also helped that we had a big lead. That took away a lot of pressure,” he added.

Despite the win, Kerala finished fifth in Group B, a significant drop-off from its performance last season when it reached the final for the first time.

Nidheesh, though, enjoyed a fruitful campaign, finishing as Kerala’s highest wicket-taker with 28 scalps.

“I feel grateful looking at these numbers. They might give us a sense of satisfaction. But they only have relevance if the team wins. I agree that a five-wicket haul is a big deal. Ultimately, you get a better kick out of it when the team succeeds,” said the 34-year-old.