Duleep Trophy final: Rajat Patidar-Yash Rathod's sturdy tons put Central Zone in complete command with 384/5 against South Zone on Day 2

Rajat Patidar (101) and Yash Rathod (137 not out) stood tall with the bat to put Central Zone in a commanding position against South Zone on the second day of the Duleep Trophy 2025 final. The pair's dominant batting helped Central Zone finish the day at 384 for five, giving them a significant first-innings lead of 235 runs.

The two batters were particularly effective in their partnership, with Patidar and Rathod combining for a crucial 167-run stand for the fourth wicket. Rathod, who was the top run-scorer in the Ranji Trophy 2024–25 season, was especially impressive. He expertly neutralized the threat of South Zone's spinners, Ankit Sharma and Ricky Bhui, by quickly judging the length of the deliveries and finding gaps in the field with ease.

As the day progressed, Rathod continued his strong performance, this time alongside Saransh Jain (47 not out). Their unbroken partnership of 118 runs completely deflated South Zone's bowling attack and further solidified Central Zone's control of the match.

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Rajat Patidar continued his excellent form by scoring his 15th First-Class hundred, a knock that was characterized by his dominance over the pacers. Patidar faced down Gurjapneet Singh, V. Koushik, and M.D. Nidheesh, hitting pleasing straight drives with the full face of the bat. He also showcased his full range of strokes against off-spinner Ricky Bhui, with a powerful shot over mid-wicket, as well as a series of well-executed sweeps and cuts that left the bowler without a clear plan.

Patidar did have a moment of luck on his way to the century. He was given a second chance on 44 when he was initially judged leg-before to a delivery from left-arm spinner Ankit Sharma. However, replays showed that Ankit had overstepped, and Patidar was given a reprieve. His innings eventually came to an end on 101 when he attempted a hook shot off a bouncer from Gurjapneet and was caught behind by the wicket-keeper.

The day had started with some hope for South Zone when V. Koushik managed to dismiss opener Akshay Wadkar. Wadkar misjudged a delivery that pitched outside off-stump but then swung sharply inward to hit the stumps. Despite this early wicket, Wadkar’s partner, Danish Malewar, continued to impress. The 21-year-old, who only made his senior debut last season, displayed great composure in seeing off the new ball and went on to score a solid 53.