Vidarbha's Dubey creates history

Nidheesh’s wicket was Dubey’s 69th dismissal of the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. During the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season, Aman dismissed 68 batters in eight matches for Bihar. Dubey, on the other hand, has played 10 matches so far for Vidarbha.

Helping my team take lead was all I had in my mind'

Harsh Dubey on Friday said helping his side take the crucial first-innings lead in the Ranji Trophy final against Kerala was his top priority and not the record he set for most wickets for a bowler in a season.

“I was not thinking about the record, honestly. I was only thinking about helping my team take the first-innings lead. The record, obviously is an achievement for me. I am feeling proud and happy, I just spoke with my parents at home,” he told the media after day's play.

“Even though it was very hot, I wanted to contribute for my team, put in as much effort as I possibly can, because this is the last game and last effort. “I was not thinking about how many overs it had been but I was only focussed on getting my team into a good situation and that was my plan,” he added.

The 22-year-old Dubey said tips received from India great Ravichandran Ashwin while playing in Chennai helped him improve his batting — he has scored 472 runs so far in the Ranji Trophy this season — to prove his all-round credentials.

“I have had several interactions with him on batting and bowling. He shared a few points with me which I try in my game,” Dubey said.