Chhattisgarh displayed their dominance in the Buchi Babu tournament semifinal against TNCA XI, securing a massive 273-run lead in the first innings. The turning point of the day came during TNCA XI’s batting innings, where Chhattisgarh’s spinners took control and dismantled the opposition.
Left-arm spinner Gagandeep Singh spearheaded the bowling attack, claiming four wickets for just 34 runs. His impressive performance was complemented by the contributions of other Chhattisgarh spinners, who collectively claimed nine wickets in the innings.
The TNCA XI innings began poorly, with opening batsmen Athish and Lokeshwar being dismissed for ducks in the first two overs. Vishvash Malik, Chhattisgarh’s pacer, bowled Lokeshwar through the gate, while off-spinner Jeevesh Butte sent back Athish bowled.
However, a brief period of resistance emerged as TNCA XI skipper Pradosh Ranjan Paul (22) and Ajitesh (39) forged a 51-run partnership for the third wicket. Paul, known for his aggressive approach, struck four boundaries, including a couple of powerful pulls and a classy cover drive. But his attacking intent ultimately led to his dismissal. He missed a heave over long-on, resulting in four byes, and was caught by Vasudev Bareth at deep midwicket in the next over.
Ajitesh, too, showcased his aggressive instincts, hitting a couple of fours off fine leg sweeps. However, his innings also ended prematurely when he fell victim to a paddle sweep, getting trapped in front by left-arm spinner Shashank Tiwari.
Following the dismissals of Paul and Ajitesh, TNCA XI crumbled to 110 for six. Gagandeep then unleashed a triple blow, removing left-handers Mokit Hariharan and Ajith Ram with catches by Anuj Tiwari at short midwicket. The final left-hander to fall, Nidhish S. Rajagopal (34), was bowled by Gagandeep while attempting a backfoot block.
Earlier, off-spinner Lakshay Jain had completed a five-wicket haul (five for 152) for Chhattisgarh, setting the stage for their dominant performance. Chhattisgarh ended their first innings with 467 runs, ensuring a comfortable lead heading into the second innings.
