Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Tushar Deshpande Takes Hat-Trick Against Chandigarh, Claims Six-Wicket Haul for Mumbai

Mumbai's Tushar Deshpande produced a spell of absolute brilliance today, October 12, claiming a hat-trick and eventually a five-wicket haul to put his side firmly in control against Chandigarh on Day 2 of their Ranji Trophy 2026-27 Elite Group D clash at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. His devastating performance dismantled Chandigarh's first innings, building on Mumbai's strong first-innings total of 429 runs. Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Ravindra Jadeja Scores Century for Saurashtra Against Chhattisgarh.

First game of the Ranji season. Hat-trick. 5-fer. In just 7 overs. TUSHAR BHAU AIKAT NAHI 🔥 https://t.co/HGLd2aaUQP

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) October 12, 2026

Tushar Deshpande's Devastating Spell

The 31-year-old right-arm pacer, Tushar Deshpande (born May 15, 1995), was in menacing form from the outset of Chandigarh's first innings. After having already removed opener Arslan Khan, Deshpande created history in the 11th over. He dismissed Arjun Azad, Shivam Bhambri, and Dipender Kush on consecutive deliveries to complete his hat-trick, leaving Chandigarh reeling at 25/4. Azad was caught for 20, while Bhambri and Kush both fell for golden ducks, caught or bowled out by Deshpande's relentless accuracy. Deshpande's spell reads an impressive 5.5-1-15-4 at the time of the hat-trick and he went on to complete a five-wicket haul, finishing the day with six wickets as Chandigarh struggled to cope with his pace and movement.

Mumbai's Dominant Position

Mumbai, captained by Siddhesh Lad, had laid a formidable foundation on Day 1 by posting a substantial first-innings total of 429 runs. Contributions from various Mumbai batters ensured a strong score, setting the stage for their bowlers to exert pressure. The early breakthroughs by Deshpande have given Mumbai a significant advantage, putting them on track for an innings victory or a dominant first-innings lead. India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is also part of the Mumbai squad and was involved in one of the catches during Deshpande's hat-trick.

Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Season Underway

The 92nd season of the Ranji Trophy, India's premier first-class cricket tournament, commenced on October 11, 2026, with 38 teams vying for the coveted title. The tournament is split into two phases and features prominent Indian cricketers representing their respective state teams. This opening round sees 19 matches being played across the country. Jammu & Kashmir are the defending champions of the tournament, having won their maiden title in the 2025-26 season.

Deshpande's hat-trick marks his second professional hat-trick, having previously achieved the feat in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in October 2023 against Mizoram. His current form will be crucial for Mumbai's campaign in the Elite Group D as they aim for Ranji Trophy glory. Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Suryakumar Yadav Dropped From Mumbai Squad, Ayush Mhatre Named Vice-Captain.

Match Details at a Glance

Where to Watch

Selected matches of the Ranji Trophy 2026-27 will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network (JioStar Network Channels) and live-streamed on JioHotstar in India.

With Deshpande leading the charge, Mumbai has gained a significant upper hand in this opening fixture. Chandigarh will need an extraordinary effort to recover from this setback and make a contest out of the remaining days of the match.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 12, 2026 06:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).