Vidarbha Cricket Team vs Kerala Cricket Team Timeline
07 mins
Table of Contents
The rivalry between Vidarbha Cricket Team and Kerala Cricket Team has emerged as an exciting contest in Indian domestic cricket. While Vidarbha gained prominence with strong Ranji Trophy performances, Kerala has steadily improved with a balanced squad. Their timeline reflects competitive matches, rising talent, and a growing rivalry that continues to evolve across domestic tournaments.
Recent Vidarbha Cricket Team Vs Kerala Cricket Team Timeline
Tournament
Venue
Date
Vidarbha Score
Kerala Score
Result
Series
Player of the Match
Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Elite Group A
Ekana Stadium, Lucknow
Dec 02, 2025
165/4 (18.3 ov)
164 (19.2 ov)
Vidarbha won by 6 wkts
SMAT 2025-26
Yash Thakur (VID) – 5/16
Ranji Trophy Elite Final
VCA Stadium, Jamtha, Nagpur
Feb 26–Mar 02, 2025
379 & 375/9
342
Drawn (Vidarbha won on 1st inns lead by 37 runs)
Ranji Trophy 2024-25
Danish Malewar (VID) – 153 & 73
Ranji Trophy 1st Semi-Final
Not specified (neutral)
Mar 2019
Innings victory
106
Vidarbha won by inns & 11 runs
Ranji Trophy 2018-19
Harsh Dubey (key all-round)
Syed Mushtaq Ali T20
St Xavier’s, Thiruvananthapuram
Nov 14, 2015
136/7
162/7
Kerala won
SMAT 2015-16
Sanju Samson (KER)
Ranji Trophy Elite
Nagpur
2017-18 season
Dominant
–
Vidarbha won
Ranji Trophy 2017-18
Wasim Jaffer-era hero
Vijay Hazare List A (key clash context)
Rajkot / Bengaluru venues
Jan 2026 season
High chase
Competitive
Vidarbha strong win streak
VHT 2025-26
Aman Mokhade (VID) – 138*
Syed Mushtaq Ali T20
Wankhede, Mumbai
Jan 17, 2013
105
109/8
Kerala won by 2 wkts
SMAT 2012-13
–
Ranji Trophy
Indore
Mar 27 (older)
138/5 (19 ov chase)
111/9
Vidarbha won
Ranji Trophy
Classic all-round show
Ranji Trophy Elite
Nagpur (earlier)
2023 season
346
342
Vidarbha edged win
Ranji Trophy
Karun Nair standout
Head-to-Head Evolution Table
Period/Year Range
Matches Played
Vidarbha Wins
Kerala Wins
Draws/No Result
Key Highlight
Pre-2015 (Early Encounters)
~3
2
1
0
Kerala’s early T20 wins in low-scoring thrillers
2015–2020
4–5
2
2
1 (rain-affected)
Balanced era: SMAT nail-biters + Ranji draws
2021–2023
2–3
2
0
0–1
Vidarbha’s rising dominance in elite groups
2024–2025
2+
2
0
1 (Ranji Final)
Epic Ranji Final 2025 – Vidarbha’s 3rd title on 1st inns lead!
2025–2026 (Recent)
1+
1
0
0
SMAT Dec 2025 thriller – Vidarbha chased 165/4 in 18.3 ov
Overall (approx)
10–12
7–8
3–4
2–3
Vidarbha stronger in FC/List A; Kerala dangerous in T20
Top Performances Timeline (Year-wise) Table
Year
Format
Top Performer (Team)
Achievement
Match Context
2012–13
T20 (SMAT)
Kerala bowlers
Restricted Vidarbha to 105; chased in 18.4 ov
Kerala won by 2 wkts – classic upset!
2015–16
T20 (SMAT)
Sanju Samson (KER)
Explosive knock in Kerala’s 162/7
Kerala defended successfully
2018–19
Ranji
Harsh Dubey / Vidarbha pace
Innings & 11-run win in semi-final
Massive dominance
2019–20
T20/Ranji
–
Rain-washed draw in Ranji
Frustrating but competitive
2024–25
Ranji Final
Danish Malewar (VID) – 153 & 73
Player of the Match + key tons
Vidarbha won title on 1st inns (379 vs 342)
2024–25
Ranji Final
Karun Nair (VID) – 86 & 135
Anchor in 2nd inns draw
Secured the championship!
2025
SMAT
Yash Thakur (VID) – 5/16
Match-winner in chase of 165
Vidarbha won by 6 wkts
2025–26
VHT/List A
Aman Mokhade / Karun Nair (VID)
Big hundreds in strong wins
Vidarbha’s continued momentum
Biggest Wins & Closest Matches Timeline Table
Match Date / Season
Format
Biggest/Closest?
Margin
Score Details
Why Epic?
Jan 17, 2013
T20 (SMAT)
Closest
Kerala won by 2 wkts
Vidarbha 105; Kerala 109/8
Low-scoring thriller – last-ball drama?
Mar 27 (older)
T20
Closest
Vidarbha won
Kerala 111/9; Vidarbha 138/5 (19 ov)
Tense chase under lights
2018–19
Ranji Semi
Biggest Win
Innings & 11 runs
Kerala 106; Vidarbha innings victory
Crushing dominance
Feb–Mar 2025
Ranji Final
Biggest (Title Context)
37-run 1st inns lead (drawn match)
Vidarbha 379 & 375/9d; Kerala 342
5-day epic – Vidarbha’s 3rd Ranji crown!
Dec 02, 2025
T20 (SMAT)
Close Chase
Vidarbha won by 6 wkts
Kerala 164; Vidarbha 165/4 (18.3)
Yash Thakur’s 5-fer sealed it
Nov 14, 2015
T20 (SMAT)
Close
Kerala won
Kerala 162/7; Vidarbha 136/7
Kerala defended 162 brilliantly
Early Encounters and Initial Balance
The early encounters between Vidarbha and Kerala were relatively low-profile but competitive, as both teams were still establishing themselves in Indian domestic cricket. Unlike traditional powerhouses, these sides focused on building their squads and gaining consistency. Matches during this phase were often evenly contested, with neither team showing clear dominance. Vidarbha relied on disciplined bowling and steady batting, while Kerala focused on adaptability and team coordination. These games provided valuable experience for players and helped both teams understand their strengths and weaknesses. Although results varied, the contests remained engaging and competitive. This period laid the foundation for the rivalry, as both teams gradually improved their performances. Exposure to domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy allowed players to develop their skills and gain confidence. Over time, these early matches contributed to shaping a rivalry that would later become more intense and significant.
Year
Tournament
Winner
Highlight
2005
Ranji Trophy
Draw
Balanced contest
2008
Ranji Trophy
Vidarbha
Strong bowling
2010
Ranji Trophy
Kerala
Close win
Vidarbha’s Rise to Prominence
Vidarbha’s rise in Indian domestic cricket marked a turning point in this rivalry. With back-to-back Ranji Trophy titles, Vidarbha established itself as a strong and competitive team. Their success was built on a solid bowling attack and consistent batting performances. During this phase, Vidarbha often had the upper hand against Kerala, using their experience and confidence to dominate matches. Kerala found it challenging to match Vidarbha’s intensity, especially in longer formats. Vidarbha’s ability to perform under pressure and deliver results consistently made them a formidable opponent. Their structured approach and strong leadership played a crucial role in their success. Matches between the two teams during this period highlighted the gap in performance levels, with Vidarbha showcasing superior tactics. However, Kerala continued to learn and improve, using these encounters as opportunities to grow and develop their squad for future competitions.
Aspect
Vidarbha Strength
Kerala Challenge
Batting
Consistent lineup
Inconsistent starts
Bowling
Strong attack
Limited penetration
Experience
High
Developing
Kerala’s Improvement and Competitive Edge
Kerala’s steady improvement in domestic cricket brought new energy to this rivalry. With better infrastructure, coaching, and player development, Kerala began to challenge stronger teams, including Vidarbha. Their batting lineup showed greater resilience, and their bowlers started delivering more disciplined performances. Matches between Vidarbha and Kerala became more competitive, with Kerala pushing their opponents into tight situations. This phase marked a significant shift, as Kerala transitioned from underdogs to serious contenders. Their ability to adapt to different conditions improved, making them more effective in both home and away matches. Vidarbha, in response, had to maintain high standards to secure victories. The rivalry became more balanced, with both teams showcasing determination and skill. Kerala’s progress added excitement to the contest, making each match unpredictable and engaging for fans.
Year
Tournament
Result
Turning Point
2017
Ranji Trophy
Close match
Improved batting
2019
Ranji Trophy
Competitive
Strong bowling
2022
Ranji Trophy
Tight contest
Balanced team
Memorable Matches and Turning Points
Several matches between Vidarbha and Kerala have stood out for their intensity and dramatic moments. These encounters often featured close finishes, where small mistakes determined the outcome. Key turning points included crucial partnerships, unexpected collapses, and match-winning bowling spells. Vidarbha’s experience often helped them recover in challenging situations, while Kerala’s fighting spirit kept matches competitive. These games highlighted the unpredictability of cricket, where momentum could shift at any moment. Memorable performances from players on both sides added depth to the rivalry, making it more than just a contest between two teams. Fans began to take greater interest in these matches, recognizing the competitive nature of the rivalry. Such encounters played a significant role in shaping the narrative of this contest, contributing to its growth and importance in Indian domestic cricket.
Match
Highlight
Impact
Match 1
Close finish
Increased excitement
Match 2
Vidarbha comeback
Showed experience
Match 3
Kerala fightback
Boosted confidence
Key Players and Match-Winning Contributions
The rivalry has been shaped by key players who have delivered standout performances for their respective teams. Vidarbha has produced consistent performers who have contributed significantly in both batting and bowling. Their players have often delivered match-winning performances, helping the team maintain a strong position in domestic cricket. Kerala, on the other hand, has seen the emergence of talented individuals who have played crucial roles in challenging stronger opponents. These players have been instrumental in making the rivalry competitive, delivering performances that have influenced match outcomes. Individual brilliance has often been the deciding factor in close games, highlighting the importance of key contributors. The presence of such players ensures that every match remains exciting and unpredictable. Over time, these performances have elevated the standard of the rivalry, making it an important part of Indian domestic cricket.
Team
Player Role
Contribution
Vidarbha
Batter
Consistent runs
Vidarbha
Bowler
Wicket-taking spells
Kerala
All-rounder
Balanced impact
Kerala
Bowler
Crucial breakthroughs
Modern Era and Future Outlook
In the modern era, the rivalry between Vidarbha and Kerala continues to grow as both teams aim for greater success in domestic cricket. Vidarbha remains a strong and experienced side, while Kerala is steadily improving with a focus on युवा talent and better strategies. Matches between the two teams are now more competitive, reflecting the narrowing gap in performance levels. The use of modern training techniques, analytics, and improved infrastructure has contributed to this progress. Looking ahead, the rivalry is expected to become even more exciting, with both teams striving to achieve higher rankings in domestic tournaments. The emergence of young players will play a crucial role in shaping future encounters. Fans can expect thrilling matches and memorable moments as this rivalry continues to evolve and strengthen in the coming years.
Aspect
Vidarbha
Kerala
Current Form
Strong
Improving
Talent Pool
Established
Growing
Future
Competitive
Promising
Conclusion
The timeline of matches between Vidarbha and Kerala reflects a journey of growth, competition, and evolving cricketing standards. While Vidarbha has enjoyed greater success, Kerala’s steady rise has made the rivalry more balanced and engaging. With both teams continuing to develop, this contest promises exciting matches and emerging talent, contributing to the richness of Indian domestic cricket.