Indian cricketers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rajat Patidar who are currently featuring in the Duleep Trophy 2024 were failed to perform in the India A vs India C clash at Rural Development Trust Stadium in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. While chasing 297 against India A. Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side was seen struggling as they lost four wickets where Saharanpur-born 20-year-old pacer Aaqib Khan was the pick of the bowlers with three scalps including skipper Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan and Rajat Patidar.
Gaikwad is the captain of MS Dhoni's Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Ruturaj Gaikwad is part of Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Earlier on Day 1, Shashwat Rawat spearheaded India A's remarkable recovery with an unbeaten 122, helping them reach 224 for seven on day one of the Duleep Trophy match against India C on Thursday. The left-handed batter, who represents Baroda in domestic cricket, received support primarily from Shams Mulani, who scored 44 off 76 balls after India A had collapsed to 36 for five in the 20th over.
Last match's centurion Pratham Singh, captain Mayank Agarwal, Tilak Varma, and Riyan Parag all fell for single-digit scores. Pacer Anshul Kamboj, who claimed eight wickets in the previous match, was once again the standout bowler for India C.
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Rawat's innings was one to remember, as he struck 15 fours in his impressive 235-ball effort. The elegant southpaw showcased a range of delightful shots, including straight drives, cover drives, and even reverse sweeps against the spinners.
He formed a crucial 87-run partnership with bowling all-rounder Mulani, who once again proved his worth with the bat following his match-winning performance in the previous game.
India C, leading the Duleep Trophy standings with nine points, will be looking to dismiss India A as quickly as possible on day two.
India A skipper Agarwal has struggled throughout the tournament, and his lean run continued on Thursday. Riyan Parag has also faced challenges, failing to capitalize on his potential and spend meaningful time at the crease.
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