Musheer Khan, a 19-year-old batsman, played a pivotal role in rescuing India B from a potentially disastrous situation on the first day of their Duleep Trophy encounter against India A at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
India B, after being asked to bat, started well with openers Abhimanyu Easwaran and Yashasvi Jaiswal putting on a 65-run partnership for the second wicket. However, the innings took a dramatic turn as India A bowlers struck back in quick succession, reducing India B to a precarious 94/7.
With the scorecard looking bleak, Musheer Khan stepped onto the field at a crucial juncture. He displayed remarkable composure and patience, meticulously building his innings against a disciplined India A bowling attack. Despite facing a barrage of probing deliveries from Akash Deep, Khaleel Ahmed, and Avesh Khan, the young batsman remained undeterred.
He took his time, accumulating his first boundary only after facing 66 balls. However, once he settled in, Musheer Khan unleashed a flurry of elegant shots, showcasing his talent and resilience.
Reaching his half-century, he cut Avesh Khan for two boundaries and smashed two sixes off off-spinner Tanush Kotian. He ultimately reached his maiden First-Class century with a single off Kuldeep Yadav, celebrating with a roar that resonated throughout the stadium.
Musheer Khan’s heroics, alongside Navdeep Saini’s valuable contribution (29 runs), provided a much-needed boost to India B, who ended the day on 202/7. The match promises to be an exciting encounter as India B will aim to build upon this crucial partnership and build a strong total in the coming days.
