Vidarbha unsure about Umesh’s participation

Kolkata, December 16

There is an air of uncertainty over the participation of India speedster Umesh Yadav in Vidarbha's Ranji Trophy semifinal against Karnataka beginning tomorrow.

Busy undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, Yadav was conspicuous by his absence during the team's training session this morning. Vidarbha's think-tank is tight-lipped about Yadav's participation. "Please speak to the Board (on Yadav's availability). We are not allowed to speak as there has been a strict guideline from our association," Vidarbha coach Chandrakant Pandit said. With a green top on offer at the Eden Gardens, the unavailability of Yadav would be a big setback for Vidarbha who are eyeing their maiden Ranji title.

Shami, Saha boost Bengal

Pune: Even as both Bengal and Delhi fancy their chances of featuring in their maiden Ranji Trophy final since 2010, the inclusion of pacer Mohammed Shami and stumper Wriddhiman Saha bolsters the eastern powerhouse ahead of their semifinal here. It would be an exciting contest between Delhi's batsmen and Bengal's bowlers. The tide seems more in favour of the Manoj Tiwary-led Bengal, considering the absence of Ishant Sharma, who won't figure in the Delhi team due to an ankle injury. — Agencies