Duleep Trophy semifinal: Narayan Jagadeesan's unbeaten 148 puts South Zone on top against North Zone, ends Day 1 at 297/3

Narayan Jagadeesan was in exceptional form, as he turned heads with a determined 148 not out to lead South Zone to a strong 297/3 against North Zone on the first day of their Duleep Trophy semifinal in Bengaluru. The opening day's play took place on a pitch at the BCCI COE Ground that offered little assistance to the bowlers. Jagadeesan displayed incredible patience and concentration, batting for over six hours to anchor his team's innings.

N Jagadeesan ;eads South Zone’s charge with classy century

Jagadeesan and his opening partner, Tanmay Agarwal, began cautiously, seeing off the new ball in a partnership that lasted until the second session. As the day progressed and the sun came out, Jagadeesan grew in confidence and started to play more aggressively. He effortlessly hit boundaries against spinners Nishant Sindhu and Mayank Dagar, particularly targeting any full deliveries, which he casually lifted over the inner field.

The innings could have ended early for Jagadeesan, who received a lucky break when he was on just nine runs. He edged a delivery from fast bowler Anshul Kamboj, but the umpire called a no-ball, giving him a second chance. Jagadeesan, who recently received his first Test call-up as an injury replacement for Rishabh Pant, made the most of this opportunity.

Later in the innings, Devdutt Padikkal provided valuable support with a fluent 57. He played confidently, using his footwork to find gaps in the field. However, his promising innings ended when he was dismissed after swinging at a wide delivery from Kamboj. But it was Jagadeesan, who didn't let the South Zone's innings stumble. Enroute to his stellar yet unbeaten knock, he built two significant partnerships that set the foundation for a formidable total. He first established a solid 103-run opening partnership with Tanmay, who contributed a composed 43 runs. Following Agarwal's departure, Jagadeesan continued his dominance, forming an authoritative 128-run second-wicket stand with the stylish left-hander Devdutt Padikkal.

Despite the persistent efforts of the North Zone bowlers, who delivered 81 overs, they could not shake Jagadeesan's concentration. Early on, fast bowlers Anshul Kamboj and Aquib Nabi, who finished with figures of 1/47 and 0/41, respectively, were unable to maintain their initial pressure. Jagadeesan skillfully navigated their spells, demonstrating his dexterity and control at the crease.