The prestigious Buchi Babu Invitational cricket tournament 2025 began today with Maharashtra facing Chhattisgarh in one of the opening fixtures. The match saw Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw playing together for the first time since Shaw’s switch to Maharashtra, and both made solid contributions on day one. Gaikwad later showcased his part-time bowling skills, while Shaw impressed in the field with three sharp catches. Their presence added significant strength to Maharashtra’s lineup, setting the tone for an engaging start to the competition.

Maharashtra’s bowlers enjoyed a productive outing, with Hitesh Walunj and Vicky Ostwal leading the attack. Both claimed three wickets each to dismantle Chhattisgarh’s batting order. Despite these breakthroughs, Maharashtra struggled to dismiss the final pair, as Shashank Tiwari and Sourabh Majumdar stood firm at the crease. Their gritty partnership frustrated the opposition for nearly four overs, resisting the relentless efforts of the Maharashtra bowlers and delaying the inevitable end to the innings.

Finally, Maharashtra captain Ankeet Bawne introduced Ruturaj Gaikwad into the bowling attack for the final over of the day. Although Gaikwad conceded a six early in the over, he responded immediately with a clever caught-and-bowled dismissal of Majumdar. That crucial wicket not only broke the stubborn partnership but also wrapped up Chhattisgarh’s innings at 252 runs in 89.3 overs. Gaikwad’s timely strike gave Maharashtra momentum heading into the next day, ensuring they ended on a positive note after a long day in the field.

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Watch the video here:

Ruturaj came to bowl last (90th) over of the day, got hit for Six and then took the last (10th) wicket by caught and bowled ! 😂🔥 pic.twitter.com/QvGOw5CZQh

— Max Unwell (@thalaterritory) August 18, 2025

Maharashtra dismissed Chattisgarh for 252