The second day of the Duleep Trophy match between India-A and India-C at the Rural Development Trust Stadium provided a thrilling continuation to the first day’s action. While India-C eventually ended the day at 216 for seven, chasing India-A’s formidable 297, their deficit would have been larger had it not been for a fantastic innings from Abishek Porel.
Porel’s 82 off 113 balls, laced with nine boundaries, saw him play with flair and aggression, putting together a vital partnership with Baba Indrajith. However, his innings ended in disappointment when he tried to go for a big shot against Shams Mulani and ended up sky-ing a catch towards mid-off.
The fifth-wicket stand between Porel and Indrajith, which began at 41 for four, stabilized the innings, adding 86 runs. However, the partnership was cut short when Indrajith retired hurt on 34, leaving India-C’s hopes hanging by a thread.
The innings was further derailed by the emergence of Aaqib Khan, the 20-year-old seamer who displayed immense promise. He bowled two sensational deliveries in his opening over, clean bowling Rajat Patidar with a ball that darted in and uprooting his off-stump. In his very next delivery, he sent Ruturaj Gaikwad edging to the wicket-keeper, Kumar Kushagra, with a ball that moved away slightly.
Earlier in the day, India-A continued their strong showing, resuming at 224 for seven. Shashwat Rawat, who had scored a century on the first day, was dismissed for 124 by Vyshak Vijayakumar, who eventually took four wickets for 51 runs. The Karnataka seamer’s impressive spell helped to limit India-A’s lead.
However, the eighth-wicket partnership between Rawat and Avesh Khan (51 not out) added 90 runs, the highest of the innings, providing India-A with valuable runs. Avesh Khan went on to score his second First Class fifty, reaching the milestone off just 67 balls, showcasing his powerful hitting skills. His crucial contribution helped India-A to maintain their dominance in the match.
The third day of the match promises more intense action as India-C looks to claw their way back into the contest. It will be fascinating to see if they can overcome their deficit and challenge India-A’s lead, or if India-A can maintain their momentum and secure a convincing victory.
