Ajith Ram's 7-Wicket Haul Powers Tamil Nadu to Massive Ranji Trophy Innings Win Over Chandigarh

Tamil Nadu registered a commanding innings-and-259-run victory over Chandigarh in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group D encounter on Thursday, with all-rounder Ajith Ram delivering a match-winning performance with both bat and ball.

After piling up a massive 571/7 declared in their first innings, Tamil Nadu bowled out Chandigarh for just 94, forcing the hosts to follow on. Chandigarh managed a better effort in their second innings but were eventually dismissed for 218 in 64.5 overs on the fourth day.

Ajith Ram was the standout performer, following his unbeaten 115 with a devastating spell of 7/48 to dismantle Chandigarh's batting line-up. Having already picked up four wickets in the first innings, he added three more on Thursday to complete an impressive seven-wicket match haul.

Chandigarh's second innings offered some resistance through Arjun Azad (60) and Manan Vohra (59), who scored half-centuries in an attempt to prevent a heavy defeat. However, their contributions proved insufficient as the rest of the batting order failed to build on the platform.

The hosts, who had resumed at 189/7 on the final day, were bowled out for 218. They had earlier slipped from 155/2, losing their remaining wickets without mounting a serious challenge.

Nehal Pajni, who had struck a double century in Chandigarh's previous match, endured a disappointing outing, scoring just 8 and 26 across the two innings.

With the emphatic victory, Tamil Nadu collected seven points, while Chandigarh finished the contest without any points.