On the first day of the Ranji Trophy opener, Baroda managed to recover from a precarious 90 for five to finish at 241 for six against defending champions Mumbai, thanks to a resilient 130-run partnership between Mitesh Patel (86) and Atit Sheth (60 not out). Mumbai's bowlers, including Shardul Thakur and Mohit Avasthi, initially dominated, reducing Baroda to a difficult position before the middle-order duo steadied the innings. The pitch at the Kotambi International Cricket Stadium provided plenty of turn and bounce, contributing to the early difficulties faced by Baroda's top order. Mitesh's dismissal just before the new ball was due marked a critical moment, as he was caught off a sharp chance by Ajinkya Rahane. Overall, Baroda's performance reflected character and resilience in the face of Mumbai's aggressive bowling attack. The match remains finely balanced as play continues.