The Tripura cricket team is on the brink of a comprehensive victory over Meghalaya in their Ranji Trophy clash, having amassed a substantial first-innings lead. Meghalaya, needing 152 runs to avoid an innings defeat, faces a daunting task on the final day.
Tripura’s dominance was evident throughout the match, with their batsmen and bowlers showcasing exceptional skills. In their first innings, Tripura declared at 377/8, thanks to half-centuries from S Sharath and Manishankar Murasingh. Murasingh’s all-round brilliance was particularly noteworthy, as he contributed significantly with both bat and ball.
Meghalaya’s response was far from satisfactory. They were bowled out for 222 in their first innings, giving Tripura a 155-run lead. Ajay Dohan’s valiant batting provided a glimmer of hope for Meghalaya, but it was not enough to prevent their team from falling behind.
Earlier, resuming on the second day with a score of 346 for six, Tripura’s unbeaten batsmen, S Sharath and Manishankar Murasingh, were in an aggressive mood from the outset. The duo added total 103 runs for the seventh wicket from 117 balls.
Manishankar scored a quick fire 60 off 72 balls, including five boundaries and three sixes, while Sharath contributed 72 off 87 balls with six fours and a six.
Tripura declared their innings at 377 for eight in 78.4 overs. For Meghalaya, Aryan took three wickets for 35 runs, Deepu claimed two for 81, and Akash Kumar also picked up two for 118.
Chasing a challenging target, Meghalaya started slowly. They eventually managed 222 in 77.4 overs. Ajay Dohan, batting at number three, was the lone bright spot, remaining unbeaten on 93 off 198 balls, including 13 fours and a six. For Meghalaya, Bimanbha scored 23, Akash Kumar 23, captain Kishan Lando 21, and Sumit Kumar 19.
For Tripura, Mani Shankar Murasing took six wickets for 52 runs, and Abhijit Sarkar claimed two for 64. Following on with a huge deficit, Meghalaya ended the third day on three without loss, having faced two overs. Tripura’s victory will now depend on their bowlers.
(Tripura, Northeast)
