Bengal stormed into the semi-finals of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 after decisively defeating Andhra by an innings and 90 runs on the final day of their quarter-final clash. The match, held at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani, saw Bengal dominate after a monumental innings by Sudip Kumar Gharami.

Andhra resumed their second innings on Day 5 at 64 for 3, still trailing by a significant 270 runs. Their hopes hinged on delaying the inevitable rather than staging a miraculous recovery. However, Bengal's bowlers quickly dismantled any such aspirations. Shahbaz Ahmed was instrumental, claiming the crucial wicket of Ricky Bhui early in the day. Bhui, who had shown resilience in the first innings, became Ahmed's second scalp, further tightening Bengal's grip on the match.

Ahmed continued his impressive performance by also dismissing Saurabh Kumar, exacerbating Andhra's woes. Despite the looming defeat, Nitish Kumar Reddy offered some resistance, attempting to salvage the situation. He forged a 57-run partnership with Kalidindi Raju and then added 85 runs with T Vijay, providing a glimmer of hope for Andhra. Vijay contributed a valuable 46, while Reddy anchored the innings with a composed display.

Reddy seemed poised to reach a well-deserved century, but Shahbaz Ahmed dismissed him for 90 off 144 deliveries, ending his resistance. His innings included seven fours and two sixes. With wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat unavailable due to injury, Andhra's remaining batting order crumbled swiftly.

Bengal's first innings was defined by Sudip Kumar Gharami's remarkable knock of 299. Gharami's marathon innings, built on patience and stamina, powered Bengal to a commanding position. He formed significant partnerships, including century stands for the sixth and seventh wickets, the latter a 221-run partnership with wicketkeeper Shakir Gandhi. Mohammed Shami added to the score with a quickfire 53 off 33 balls, propelling Bengal to a total of 629, establishing a massive 334-run lead.

Bengal's bowling attack was relentless throughout the match. In Andhra's first innings, Mukesh Kumar spearheaded the attack with 5 for 66, while Akash Deep supported him with 4 for 79. Shahbaz Ahmed's 4 for 72 in the second innings further solidified Bengal's dominance.

Bengal will now face Jammu & Kashmir in the semi-finals, scheduled to begin on February 15. Jammu & Kashmir reached their first-ever Ranji Trophy semi-final after defeating Madhya Pradesh.