Ricky Bhui, displaying remarkable resilience and grit, steered India D towards a crucial first-innings lead against India B in their third-round Duleep Trophy fixture. Facing a barrage of short-pitched deliveries from Navdeep Saini on a two-paced pitch, Bhui was struck on the back of his helmet twice in consecutive overs, forcing him to retire hurt. However, he returned to the crease with renewed determination, guiding his team from 161 for five to 244 for five at stumps, gaining a substantial 311-run lead in the second innings.
India B, currently in second place with seven points, desperately needed an outright victory to secure the title. However, Bhui’s heroics have made their task extremely difficult. India C, leading the table with 10 points, will maintain their top spot if they manage a draw in their match against India A.
Bhui’s innings was a masterclass in composure and determination. He confidently dispatched leg-spinner Rahul Chahar and left-arm orthodox Musheer Khan for sixes, clearing the field with powerful strokes. He even had answers for Saini’s bouncers, pulling them with precision through the mid-wicket region.
Earlier, Shreyas Iyer’s whirlwind half-century (50 off 40 balls) proved to be a vital contribution for India D. His knock came at a crucial juncture when India D was struggling at 18 for three. He blazed his way to a half-century, showcasing his aggressive approach and hitting four boundaries in as many balls off Mohit Avasthi. However, his innings ended when he was lured into a bouncer by Mukesh Kumar and caught by a fine third-man fielder.
In the India B innings, Washington Sundar’s valiant 87 runs provided a glimmer of hope. He showcased his attacking prowess, hitting seven boundaries and a six, and was a constant threat to the India D bowlers. However, untimely run-outs and a couple of crucial wickets restricted India B to 282 runs, handing India D three crucial points for the first-innings lead. India B now has a challenging task ahead of them on the final day. They will need to dismiss India D quickly and chase down a large target to secure the Duleep Trophy title.
The final day promises a thrilling showdown as both teams battle it out for a chance to lift the prestigious trophy.
