Meghalaya’s Brave Struggle: Overcoming the Odds in Ranji Trophy Opener Against Tripura
Meghalaya faces a challenging task to salvage a draw in their Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group A match against Tripura, as they follow on at the MCA Ground. Tripura declared their first innings at 377/8, starting the day at 346/6, and secured a substantial 155-run lead by dismissing Meghalaya for 222.
As play concluded on the third day, Meghalaya had just begun their second innings, standing at 3/0, and trailing by 152 runs. Their best hope now rests on surviving the final day to force a draw. Central to Meghalaya’s first innings was guest professional Ajay Duhan, who anchored the team’s effort with a resilient 93 not out from 198 balls. Coming in at number three, he expertly held the innings together, hitting 13 boundaries and a six, and reached his fifty with a stylish hook shot.
Despite being dropped on 85, Duhan remained composed, working with the lower order to attempt avoiding the follow-on. However, local batters like Bamanbha Shangpliang and Kishan Lyngdoh could not build on their starts, contributing 23 and 21 runs respectively. Tripura’s MB Mura Singh was exceptional with the ball, claiming 6/52 in 26.4 overs, effectively dismantling Meghalaya’s middle order. Akash Kumar Choudhary lent a brief but valuable contribution of 23, forming a 49-run partnership with Duhan for the seventh wicket.
Play was cut short due to poor light, giving Meghalaya only a brief stint in their second innings. Their openers now face a daunting challenge on the final day, tasked with batting through to prevent a loss. The outcome hinges on their ability to hold out against Tripura’s attack. The game remains poised, with Meghalaya striving to avoid a defeat by leveraging their batting depth.
Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/meghalaya/story/meghalaya-face-uphill-battle-after-follow-on-against-tripura-in-ranji-trophy-opener-1108917-2024-10-21?utm_source=rssfeed
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