Dense Fog and Fierce Bowling Mark Day One of Tripura-Services Ranji Trophy Match
Host Tripura clawed back after an early setback in their Ranji Trophy cricket match against Services at the MBB Stadium on Thursday. By the close of play today, Tripura had managed to score 116 runs while losing four wickets, salvaging their innings from a precarious 49 for 4.
The day's play was significantly delayed due to dense fog, setting an eerie tone right from the start. Services, having won the toss, elected to field first under the gloomy morning sky. The overcast condition was exploited fully by spearhead, Barun Chowdhury of Services. He quickly sent back openers Jiwan Jot Singh (0) and Sridam Paul (6). Nitin Yadav compounded the early damage by dismissing Bikram Kumar Das for just 1 run, leaving Tripura reeling at 17 for 3.
With the innings teetering on the edge, wicketkeeper-batsman Sharat, alongside captain Mandeep Singh, attempted to stabilize the ship. However, Mandeep's resistance was short-lived, falling to Nitin Yadav for 18 runs off 52 balls, featuring two boundaries. This left Tripura in a dire situation, teetering on the brink.
In a display of resilience reminiscent of legendary defenses, Sharat and Rajat Dey forged an unbeaten partnership. They methodically countered the aggressive bowling, inching Tripura towards recovery. When play was curtailed due to fading light, Tripura stood at 116 for 4 in 41 overs. Sharat was unbeaten on 57, crafted from 95 deliveries with eight boundaries and a six, while Rajat contributed an unbeaten 25 from 68 balls, including four boundaries.
For Services, Barun Chowdhury was economical and effective, claiming two wickets for 26 runs. Nitin Yadav matched him with two wickets for 41.
If Tripura hope to keep their fight alive, they must continue their disciplined approach on Friday. The duo of Sharat and Rajat will need to anchor the innings, ideally adding another 200 runs to the total to set a challenging target. Without this, Tripura's battle could become an uphill struggle. The camp, however, remains optimistic about staging a comeback.
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