2017-18 Ranji Trophy: 5 best performers from the first round

#2 Jalaj Saxena

Jalaj Saxena stole the show once again

Jalaj Saxena is one of those unlucky cricketers who never really made it big despite doing well in the Indian domestic circuit. He has been one of the most consistent performers for both Madhya Pradesh and Kerala over the last few years.

Saxena started the 2017-18 season on a positive note as his all-round show led Kerala to victory in their first-round match against Jharkhand in Trivandrum. After choosing to bat first, the visitors found themselves in a spot of bother as Jalaj ran through their batting order and restricted them for just 202 in the first innings. He ended the innings with figures of 6-50.

When Kerala were 120/5, his unbeaten 54 not only made sure that his team crossed Jharkhand's total but also gave them a crucial 57-run first-innings lead. He followed it up with an outstanding spell of spin bowling as his 5-27 helped his team bundle their opponents out for just 89 in the second innings.

The Kerala batsmen had no trouble in chasing 33 in the fourth innings and gave them an eight-wicket win.