NEW DELHI: Sanju Samson showcased his immense talent, securing his 11th first-class century as India D took control over India B on the second day of their final Duleep Trophy round robin league match in Anantapur.
India D finished their first innings at 349 in 87.3 overs. At the close of play, India B were at a precarious 210 for 6, despite their captain Abhimanyu Easwaran scoring his second century of the tournament.
Easwaran’s innings marked his 25th first-class century.
Suryakumar Yadav, the India T20 captain, who has been recovering from a finger injury, only managed to score five runs before being dismissed. Arshdeep Singh, who bowled outstandingly with figures of 3/30 in 12 overs, claimed his wicket.
Samson, resuming from an unbeaten 89, completed his century with an aggressive 106 off 101 balls. His innings included 12 boundaries and three massive sixes, reported PTI.
Beginning the day at 306 for 5, India D couldn't last long despite Samson's heroic effort. The last five wickets fell for an additional 43 runs, mainly due to Delhi pacer Navdeep Saini's efforts.
Saini, with remarkable bowling figures of 5/74 in 18.3 overs, demonstrated his worth once again. Initially, not picked in any squads, Saini has now taken 11 wickets in three games, catching the selectors’ attention.
On India B’s side, Easwaran stood out with his 170-ball 116, featuring 13 fours and a six. Having scored 157 not out in his previous match, Easwaran remains a strong contender for selectors despite some critics.
At one point, India B seemed stable at 88 for 2. However, Arshdeep's second spell changed the game. He dismissed Musheer Khan, who was caught leg-before wicket after scoring just 5 runs.
“Suryakumar was the reason for all those who came to watch the match," but he faced only 15 balls before being dismissed by Aditya Thakare, caught off Arshdeep's bowling.
Arshdeep's fierce bowling continued, leading to Nitish Reddy's dismissal for zero, caught by Samson. This left India B struggling at 100 for 5.
Easwaran maintained his focus, partnering with Washington Sundar, who scored an unbeaten 39. Their sixth-wicket partnership brought 105 runs.
Towards the end of the day, Easwaran was dismissed, caught behind by Thakare who ended with figures of 2/33.
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