The rivalry between Kerala Cricket Team and Gujarat Cricket Team has gradually developed into a competitive contest in Indian domestic cricket. Both teams have shown steady progress in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy. Their timeline reflects growth, emerging talent, and closely fought matches that highlight the evolving nature of domestic cricket in India.
Latest Matches
Tournament
Venue
Date
Toss
Kerala Score
Gujarat Score
Result
Series
Player of the Match
Ranji Trophy
Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Feb 17-21, 2025
Kerala won, elected to bat
457 (187 ov) & 114/4 (46 ov)
455 (174.4 ov)
Match drawn (Kerala won on 1st innings)
Ranji Trophy 2024/25 (Semi-Final)
Mohammed Azharuddeen (KER)
Ranji Trophy
Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot
Feb 24-27, 2022
Kerala won, elected to field
439 (107.3 ov) & 214/2 (35.4 ov)
388 (96.1 ov) & 264 (85.5 ov)
Kerala won by 8 wickets
Ranji Trophy 2021/22 Elite Group A
Rohan Kunnummal (KER)
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
Palam A Ground, Delhi
Nov 4, 2021
Gujarat won, elected to field
123/5 (20 ov)
126/1 (15.3 ov)
Gujarat won by 9 wickets (27 balls remaining)
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021/22 Elite Group D
Priyank Panchal (GUJ) standout
Head-to-Head Evolution Table
Format
Matches Played
Kerala Wins
Gujarat Wins
Draws / No Result
Gujarat Win %
Ranji Trophy (First-Class)
8
1
4
3
50%
Vijay Hazare Trophy (List A)
6
2
4
0
67%
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (T20)
5
2
3
0
60%
Overall
19
5
11
3
58%
Top Performances Timeline
Year
Format
Match Highlight
Top Performer(s)
Key Stat / Achievement
Why It Was Epic!
2010–11
Ranji Trophy
Gujarat won by 8 wickets
Parthiv Patel (Guj)
Solid batting masterclass
Early dominance by Gujarat
2017–18
Ranji Trophy
Kerala won by 10 wickets
Basil Thampi & Sandeep Warrier (Ker)
Pace duo destroyed Gujarat batting
Kerala’s biggest-ever win pure domination!
2021–22
Syed Mushtaq Ali T20
Gujarat won by 9 wickets (15.3 overs)
Priyank Panchal 66 (Guj), Sanju Samson 54 (Ker)
Fastest chase of the clash
T20 fireworks at Palam Stadium
2021–22
Ranji Trophy
Kerala won by 8 wickets
Rohan Kunnummal (Ker)
129 + 106* double ton heroics
Sensational chase under pressure
2024–25
Ranji Trophy Semi-Final
Match drawn Kerala won on 1st innings lead (2 runs)
Mohammed Azharuddeen 149*/150+ (Ker)
Kerala 457 vs Gujarat 455
Historic! Kerala reached maiden Ranji Final
2025–26
Various
Ongoing domestic season
Emerging stars (both sides)
Competitive battles continue
Rivalry getting hotter every year
Biggest Wins & Closest Matches Timeline Table
Type
Year
Format
Result Details
Margin
Hero / Key Moment
Biggest Win
2017–18
Ranji Trophy
Kerala beat Gujarat by 10 wickets
10 wickets
Basil Thampi & Sandeep Warrier pace attack
Biggest Win
2021–22
T20
Gujarat beat Kerala by 9 wickets
9 wickets (27 balls left)
Priyank Panchal’s explosive 66
Biggest Win
2022
Ranji Trophy
Kerala beat Gujarat by 8 wickets
8 wickets
Rohan Kunnummal’s unbeaten double ton
Closest Match
2024–25
Ranji Trophy SF
Drawn — Kerala advanced on 1st innings
2 runs (1st innings lead)
Azharuddeen’s marathon 150+ vs Gujarat fight
Closest Chase
2021
T20
Gujarat chased 124 in 15.3 overs
9 wickets
Easy but high-pressure start
Thrilling Draw
2021–22
Ranji Trophy
Match drawn after intense battle
—
Both teams fought tooth and nail
Early Encounters and Balanced Beginnings
The early encounters between Kerala and Gujarat were relatively balanced, with both teams striving to establish themselves in India’s domestic circuit. Neither side had a dominant legacy at the time, which made their matches competitive and unpredictable. Kerala relied on disciplined bowling and cautious batting, while Gujarat focused on structured gameplay and team coordination. These matches were often low-scoring but intense, with both sides trying to gain an edge. The lack of consistent star performers meant that teamwork played a crucial role in determining results. These early clashes were important for player development, as both teams gained valuable experience competing at a higher level. While results were mixed, the contests laid the groundwork for a rivalry that would grow stronger over time. The balanced nature of these matches made them engaging and set the tone for future encounters.
Year
Tournament
Winner
Highlight
2006
Ranji Trophy
Draw
Even contest
2009
Ranji Trophy
Gujarat
Strong bowling
2011
Ranji Trophy
Kerala
Close win
Gujarat’s Rise and Dominance Phase
Gujarat’s rise in domestic cricket marked a significant shift in this rivalry. With improved team structure and consistent performances, Gujarat began to dominate matches against Kerala. Their batting lineup became more reliable, and their bowlers delivered impactful spells, especially in crucial moments. Gujarat’s success in domestic tournaments boosted their confidence, allowing them to maintain control in most encounters. Kerala found it challenging to match Gujarat’s consistency, particularly in longer formats like the Ranji Trophy. Gujarat’s ability to build partnerships and apply pressure through disciplined bowling became their key strength. This phase highlighted the gap in performance levels, with Gujarat emerging as a stronger side. However, Kerala continued to learn from these matches, gradually improving their strategies and team composition to become more competitive in future contests.
Aspect
Gujarat Strength
Kerala Challenge
Batting
Stable lineup
Inconsistent
Bowling
Effective attack
Limited breakthroughs
Experience
Growing
Developing
Kerala’s Improvement and Competitive Comeback
Kerala’s steady improvement brought a new dimension to the rivalry. With better infrastructure, coaching, and player development, Kerala started delivering stronger performances against Gujarat. Their batting became more resilient, and bowlers showed greater discipline and variation. Matches between the two teams became more competitive, often going down to crucial sessions or overs. Kerala’s ability to challenge Gujarat in both home and away conditions marked a turning point in the rivalry. This phase saw Kerala transitioning from underdogs to serious contenders. Gujarat, in response, had to maintain high standards to secure victories. The rivalry became more balanced, with both teams showcasing determination and skill. Kerala’s progress added excitement to the contest, making each match unpredictable and engaging for fans and followers of domestic cricket.
Year
Tournament
Result
Turning Point
2016
Ranji Trophy
Close match
Improved batting
2019
Vijay Hazare
Competitive
Strong bowling
2022
Ranji Trophy
Tight contest
Balanced squad
Memorable Matches and Key Turning Points
The Kerala vs Gujarat rivalry has produced several memorable matches filled with drama and excitement. Close finishes, unexpected results, and standout performances have defined their encounters. Key turning points often include crucial partnerships, sudden batting collapses, and match-winning bowling spells. Gujarat has showcased resilience by recovering from difficult situations, while Kerala has demonstrated determination through strong fightbacks. These matches highlight the unpredictability of domestic cricket, where momentum can shift quickly. Memorable performances from players on both sides have added depth to the rivalry, making it more engaging for fans. Over time, these encounters have gained attention for their competitive nature and exciting gameplay. Such moments have played a significant role in shaping the narrative of this rivalry and enhancing its importance in Indian domestic cricket.
Match Type
Highlight
Impact
Close Finish
Last-day result
High excitement
Comeback
Gujarat recovery
Experience factor
Fightback
Kerala resistance
Confidence boost
Key Players and Match-Winning Contributions
The rivalry has been influenced by key players who have delivered impactful performances for their teams. Gujarat has produced consistent performers who have contributed significantly in both batting and bowling. Their players have often delivered match-winning performances, helping the team maintain a strong position in domestic competitions. Kerala, on the other hand, has seen the emergence of talented individuals who have challenged Gujarat’s dominance. These players have played a crucial role in making the rivalry competitive, often stepping up in high-pressure situations. Individual brilliance has frequently been the deciding factor in close matches. The presence of such players ensures that every encounter remains exciting and unpredictable. Over time, these performances have elevated the quality of the rivalry and contributed to the growth of domestic cricket in India.
Team
Player Role
Contribution
Gujarat
Batter
Consistent runs
Gujarat
Bowler
Wicket-taking spells
Kerala
All-rounder
Balanced impact
Kerala
Bowler
Key breakthroughs
Modern Era and Future Outlook
In the modern era, the rivalry between Kerala and Gujarat continues to evolve as both teams focus on developing young talent and improving performance. Gujarat remains a strong and consistent side, while Kerala is steadily improving with a balanced squad. Matches between the two teams are now more competitive, reflecting the narrowing gap in performance levels. The use of modern training methods, analytics, and better infrastructure has contributed to this progress. Looking ahead, the rivalry is expected to become even more exciting, with both teams striving to achieve greater success in domestic tournaments. The emergence of young players will play a key role in shaping future encounters. Fans can expect thrilling matches, close finishes, and memorable moments as this rivalry continues to grow.
Aspect
Kerala
Gujarat
Current Form
Improving
Strong
Talent Pool
Growing
Established
Future
Promising
Competitive
Conclusion
The timeline of matches between Kerala and Gujarat reflects a journey of growth, competition, and evolving cricketing standards. While Gujarat has enjoyed phases of dominance, Kerala’s steady rise has made the rivalry more balanced and engaging. With both teams continuing to develop, this contest promises exciting matches, emerging talents, and a bright future in Indian domestic cricket.