New Delhi, Dec 14: The battle for quarterfinal places in the Ranji Trophy Super League has become fierce as the teams gear up for their last group matches, beginning on Tuesday.
So far only three teams are assured of a berth in the knockout stage. Tamil Nadu with 23 points from Group A and Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh with 23 and 18 points from Group B. That means the outcome of the last league games will throw up the remaining three teams while the other teams will be the finalists from the Plate division.
While Punjab, Mumbai and Railways will fight it out for the two places from Group A, Delhi and Baroda will be vying for the third team’s slot from Group B.
Both Mumbai and Punjab have 16 points from their six matches but the latter are placed in second place on a better run-rate.
However, 38 times champions Mumbai are better placed as they play a weaker Gujarat at home. Also, the result of Punjab-Railways match will be closely followed. Railways with 13 points are still in fray and will have the advantage of playing on home turf.
Railways need to win this home tie to be in contention for the last eight stage. Punjab just need a draw, even if they concede first-innings lead, to make the grade.
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