Largely hailed for their batting exploits, Mumbai provided a timely reminder of the bowling firepower they possess in some style at the Just Cricket Academy Ground on Thursday. On the middle, moving day of their Ranji Trophy semi-final, Mumbai used their pace and spin resources with equally telling effect to all, but shut Uttar Pradesh out of the contest, thereby taking a massive stride towards next week’s final.

Uttar Pradesh knew they were in for a scrap after being reduced to 25 for two at stumps on the second evening. Mumbai’s 393 seemed a mountain too high even at that stage. UP needed to showcase the same discipline and commitment that Mumbai’s batsmen had embraced over the first day and a half, but they weren’t allowed to do so by a Mohit Avasthi-headed attack that was backed up by exceptional catching.