Vidarbha secured their third Ranji Trophy title on Sunday, triumphing over Sachin Baby's Kerala team by establishing a vital first-innings lead. The standout player of the season was 22-year-old Harsh Dubey, who concluded an exceptional campaign as the leading wicket-taker, amassing an impressive total of 69 wickets in 19 innings at an outstanding average of 16.98.

The final match held in Nagpur was characterized by significant shifts in momentum. Kerala's aspirations were largely dependent on their captain, Sachin, who narrowly missed a century, scoring a commendable 98. His dismissal was pivotal, allowing Vidarbha to secure a memorable victory. It is noteworthy that all three of Vidarbha's Ranji titles have been achieved in the past seven years, highlighting their recent supremacy in the tournament.

In the previous season, Vidarbha faced disappointment, losing to Mumbai in the final and missing the opportunity to claim the title. However, this time they orchestrated a remarkable comeback, demonstrating both resilience and skill to capture the championship. Their achievements extended beyond the Ranji Trophy, as they also reached the final of the Vijay Hazare Trophy during the 2024-25 season, showcasing their consistency across different formats.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, Harsh Dubey reflected on the victory, identifying Sachin Baby's wicket as the crucial turning point of the match, acknowledging the strong performance of the Kerala captain. Nevertheless, he stressed Vidarbha's confidence, asserting that even if Kerala had taken the lead, his team was prepared to rise to the challenge and secure the win.

Certainly, it marked a significant turning point. He achieved a score of 98, demonstrating a cautious approach to his play. In truth, he exemplified the technique required to bat effectively on that pitch and accumulate runs. The spinners were indeed extracting some assistance from the surface. However, I must emphasize that even if we had allowed a first-innings lead, we remained confident in our ability to secure victory by dismissing them in the fourth innings. Although we conceded a lead this season, we successfully orchestrated a comeback, remarked Dubey.

In the wake of Vidarbha's Ranji Trophy victory, captain Akshay Wadkar disclosed that their preparations commenced as early as the previous year's monsoon season. Eager to move past the disappointments of the last season, the team aimed for a renewed beginning and a route to redemption.

"Once our season concludes, we engage in small fitness and training camps within two months. These camps last for 15 days, followed by a brief one-week break. Our focus is primarily on fitness, and as soon as the weather improves, we shift our attention to batting and bowling. It is crucial to invest effort during the off-season, as this ultimately leads to positive outcomes," stated Harsh Dubey.

The all-rounder further emphasized that every player in the Vidarbha squad has experienced success in age-group competitions, cultivating a strong winning mentality that now characterizes the team.

"I believe that most of our current squad members have the experience of securing two trophies in age-group tournaments. Excelling in those competitions equips you with the knowledge necessary to navigate larger tournaments. Players like Danish Malewar and Yash Rathod, who have consistently performed well, have been dedicated to their training for an extended period," he noted.

"We possess a winning mentality. We understand how to approach our tasks, and I believe this has been a significant factor in our success this season," he concluded.

Learning from Ravichandran Ashwin

Despite achieving an impressive tally of 69 wickets this season, Dubey maintained that his approach remained unchanged. For him, the key was to remain focused, adhere to his established process, and execute it with precision.

"I honestly did not alter my methods. Everything I have accomplished this season is consistent with what I have practised for many years. I was assigned the role of the lead spinner and this year, I had the chance to participate in the entire season, which I fully capitalized on. I appreciate being entrusted with responsibility. I thrive under pressure, as it provides me with a certain thrill. While some may feel the weight of a match against Mumbai, I prefer to focus on how I can enjoy the experience," he remarked.

Few are aware that the all-rounder's career commenced at the Mylapore Recreational Club (MRC), where he played under the leadership of former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. While one might expect Ashwin's mentorship to focus on spin bowling, the seasoned player instead provided Dubey with invaluable advice on enhancing his batting skills.

"To be honest, he did not offer me many tips on bowling. He mentioned, 'You are bowling well, so I do not want to confuse you.' Instead, he provided me with batting guidance. In the past, I attempted to play every shot. He advised me, 'You possess all the shots, but it is not essential to play them on every surface.' This advice has always stayed with me," he explained.

"I began my career as an opening batsman. I do not consider myself primarily a bowler. Whenever I practice batting during the off-season, it is always with a specific goal in mind. In the off-season, I concentrate more on batting, while my bowling practice is more match-oriented. To have a chance to represent India, I must excel in both disciplines," he added.

Although he has auditioned for IPL teams such as Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mumbai Indians, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, Dubey has yet to secure a contract. Nevertheless, the young cricketer remains undeterred and does not perceive this as a setback.

"IPL is a dream. But I am not overthinking about it that I am not being picked in the IPL. I always think there would be some reason that I'm not being picked in the IPL. I need to improve in all aspects; I want to play the IPL. Whenever I get the opportunity, I just want to do well," he added.

The sacrifices of Dubey Sr.

Harsh's father was a member of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), a position that necessitated frequent moves. During his childhood, Dubey resided in various cities, including Pune, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Guwahati, before the family ultimately established their home in Nagpur. Reflecting on his experiences, the young cricketer acknowledged the sacrifices made by his family as instrumental in shaping the player he is today.

"My father made numerous sacrifices. He experienced many transfers and eventually left his job. My career took centre stage. My mother, who was a teacher, would go to school and, upon her return, take me to the cricket ground. I owe them a great deal of gratitude for their hard work. My father worked night shifts and would still manage to take me to practice in the morning. It brings me joy to see them smile," Harsh expressed.

In concluding the discussion, Dubey shared that he has been an admirer of Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja for several years and aspires to emulate their success.

"As a spinner, I greatly admire Ashwin bhaiya. I have gained insights by observing his techniques. During the England series, I noticed his unique bowling style, particularly his under-cutting of the ball. As an all-rounder, I look up to Ravindra Jadeja. I aspire to follow in his footsteps and contribute to my region and, hopefully, to India in the future," he stated.

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