Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Rinku Singh’s 176 Helps Uttar Pradesh Secure First-Innings Lead in Drawn Clash vs Tamil Nadu

A brilliant 176 from Rinku Singh powered Uttar Pradesh to a vital first-innings lead, earning the team three points in a drawn Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Elite Group A match against Tamil Nadu in Coimbatore on Wednesday.

Tamil Nadu began strongly, putting up 455 in the first innings — their second-highest total this season after the 512/3 against Nagaland. The hosts had UP in deep trouble at 191/5 midway through Day 3, but Rinku Singh’s career-best First-Class knock turned the game around.

Rinku Singh’s Match-Saving Masterclass

Rinku’s 176 (247 balls, 17 fours, 6 sixes) was the defining contribution of the match, blending controlled aggression with smart shot placement. His effort shepherded UP to 460, giving them a narrow five-run lead that handed them three crucial points.

Tamil Nadu’s mood in the dressing room was sombre, further dampened by the late-night news of head coach M. Senthilnathan’s removal from upcoming white-ball assignments.

Despite Rinku’s brilliance, UP’s lower order also played critical roles. Aaqib Khan smashed a four and six off Sai Kishore to push past the deficit, while No. 11 Kunal Tyagi’s boundary off Vidyuth sealed the lead, sparking loud celebrations.

Sloppy Fielding Costs Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu suffered due to missed chances — the most glaring being B. Sachin dropping Aaqib at silly point when UP were still 38 runs behind.

Sachin redeemed himself partially by hitting 59 in TN’s second innings, adding 99 for the opening wicket with Jagadeesan (44). But with the match ending early on Day 4, TN had to settle for a single point, extending a difficult campaign.