In a thrilling encounter at the Duleep Trophy, Abhimanyu Easwaran’s valiant century (143*) kept India B’s hopes alive against India C in Anantapur. The India B captain played an impressive 262-ball innings, showcasing his resilience amidst a string of dismissals.
India C, who had posted a formidable first-innings score of 525 thanks to Ishan Kishan’s century, looked set to dominate the match. However, Easwaran’s determined batting kept India B in the contest.
Starting the day at 124 for no loss, India B faced early setbacks when India C pacer Anshul Kamboj dismissed Narayan Jagadeesan for 70 runs. The breakthrough ended a crucial 129-run partnership. Kamboj then wreaked havoc, claiming the wickets of Musheer Khan (1), Sarfaraz Khan (16), Rinku Singh (6), and Nithis Kumar Reddy (2), leaving India B struggling at 194 for 5.
Easwaran, however, remained undeterred. He forged valuable partnerships with Washington Sundar (43 runs) and Sai Kishore (46 runs), keeping India B in the game. At the end of the day, Easwaran stood tall at 143 not out, with Rahul Chahar (18 not out) for company.
Despite Easwaran’s heroics, India B still trails by 216 runs with only three wickets remaining. They require 66 more runs to avoid a follow-on. The pressure is mounting on India B, who face a challenging task on the final day of the match.
India C captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has the option to enforce a follow-on, but considering the significant first-innings lead and the approaching end of the match, he might choose to avoid the risk.
If India C enforces the follow-on and wins, they will earn six points. However, if they choose not to enforce the follow-on, they will secure three points. The final day of the match promises to be a nail-biting affair as India B fight to salvage pride, while India C aim for a resounding victory.
