‘Happy with how things are shaping up’ – Nagaland coach Mohanty after team’s resilient show against TN in Ranji Trophy
It was not the result Tamil Nadu had hoped for, but the team managed to secure a 66-run first-innings lead against a resilient Nagaland side on the final day of the second round of the Ranji Trophy clash at the BCCI CoE on Tuesday.
Both teams’ head coaches, M. Senthilnathan for TN and Debashish Mohanty, former India pacer and current Nagaland head coach, spoke exclusively to Sportstar and shared their thoughts on the match.
“Actually, this wasn’t the result we wanted. We were hoping for something better. But that’s how the game is. The wicket was really good, even on the last day. I think this is a fair result. Also, Nagaland really applied themselves well and fought hard,” said Senthilnathan.
“People might be surprised seeing Nagaland put up such a fight, but you have to give them credit. The left-hander (Imliwati) showed grit,” added Senthilnathan.
READ: Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Top batters, bowlers from second round of fixtures
“I think we played really well. Honestly, if you ask me, the boys showed great character, especially playing against Tamil Nadu—a big team, obviously,” felt Mohanty.
“After that initial collapse (31 for four)… To come back from there required a lot of character. Nischal and Imliwati, especially, and also Yugandhar, — a young guy — all showed great fight,” added Mohanty.
“Imliwati’s innings put them under pressure. Nischal was holding one end, and when Imli started scoring freely, they didn’t expect that. When a number seven batter from Nagaland started counterattacking the top bowlers, naturally, they felt the pressure.”
“The biggest positive was the application the boys showed under pressure. That was really remarkable. Of course, there are areas we need to work on—mainly fielding and bowling. But overall, I’m quite happy with how things are shaping up.”
Published on Oct 28, 2025
