Pacer Avesh Khan played a crucial role for India A on the second day of the Duleep Trophy final round match against India C. Khan contributed with an unbeaten half-century (51 not out) and also claimed the prized wicket of Ishan Kishan.
Avesh, Aaqib keep India A in good stead
Avesh Khan's 68-ball 51 included five fours and four sixes, helping India A notch a total of 297 runs. In response, India C faced a top-order collapse, with young pacers Aaqib Khan (3/43) and Avesh Khan (1/52) wreaking havoc on their lineup. Aaqib, a 20-year-old from Uttar Pradesh, dismissed Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rajat Patidar off consecutive deliveries, showcasing his impressive skills.
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At stumps on the second day, India C were 216 for 7, trailing India A by 81 runs in the Duleep Trophy final round match. India C currently leads the points table with 9 points, followed by India B (7) and India A (6). The top team at the end of this round will claim the Duleep Trophy title.
Earlier in the day, Shashwat Rawat's resolute knock ended at 124 runs. Avesh Khan and Prasidh Krishna formed a crucial partnership, adding 42 runs for the ninth wicket. Avesh went on to complete his second first-class half-century, boosting India A's total.
Vyshak Vijaykumar led the bowling attack for India C, claiming 4/51. Anshul Kamboj (3/49) and Gaurav Yadav (2/57) also contributed significantly.
India C crumbled under the fiery pace of Aaqib Khan, who dismissed skipper Gaikwad (17) and Rajat Patidar (0) off consecutive deliveries. Avesh Khan further dented India C's chase, removing Ishan Kishan (5). Abhishek Sharma played a crucial role in stabilizing the innings, adding 51 runs with Baba Indrajith, who retired hurt after scoring 34.
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India C struggle to take first-innings lead, Day 3 promises intrigue
Porel's resistance was cut short by Shams Mulani, who took two wickets in four balls, leaving India C reeling at 165/6. Pulkit Narang and Vijaykumar Vyshak steadied the ship, guiding their team to 216/7 at stumps, still trailing by 81 runs with three wickets in hand. The third day of the Duleep Trophy final round match promises to be an intriguing contest, with India A looking to capitalize on their advantage and India C aiming to close the gap.
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