Salem, Aug 23: In the Buchi Babu tournament’s second-round Group-B match at the Salem Cricket Foundation (SCF) ground, 19-year-old S. Mohamed Ali showcased exceptional batting prowess, leading the TNCA President’s XI to a formidable total of 459 against Railways on Thursday.
Ali’s 267-ball innings, punctuated by 20 fours and four sixes, was a masterclass in footwork and shot selection, particularly against spin. His ability to use his feet against spinners was a highlight, as he frequently advanced down the track to dispatch deliveries to the boundary. Notably, he struck a long-off four and a straight six off left-arm spinner Ayan Chaudhary, a straight six off Raj Chaudhary, and a straight four off Mohammad Saif.
Ali was equally impressive against off-spinner Vishal Harsh, converting a delivery into a full toss and sending it for a six to cow corner. Even when he was nearly outfoxed by Raj’s wide delivery, Ali managed to edge it for four, demonstrating his composure and quick reflexes.
Throughout his innings, Ali employed the sweep shot effectively, scoring multiple boundaries against Ayan and Raj. He also displayed his wristy elegance with a lofted flick to deep midwicket, responding to a previous delivery that had beaten him on the outside edge.
Ali’s brilliant innings finally came to an end when he was caught at long-on off Ayan Chaudhary, who secured a five-wicket haul with figures of 5 for 143. Earlier in the innings, Ayan had also dismissed Jhathavedh Subramanyan, who edged one back to the bowler.
In reply, Railways made a strong start, reaching 185 for 2 by stumps. Opener Pratham Singh led the charge with a fluent unbeaten 104 off 136 balls, including 13 fours and three sixes. Pratham’s innings was characterized by aggressive stroke play, particularly against left-arm spinner M. Siddharth, whom he punished with back-to-back boundaries and a powerful six to midwicket.
Pratham was well-supported by Mohammad Saif, who remained unbeaten on 43 off 71 balls, hitting four fours and a six. The duo put together an unbroken 115-run partnership for the third wicket, keeping Railways in contention as they continue to chase TNCA President’s XI’s total.