Hyderabad, Sept 5; Hyderabad’s lower middle order propelled the team to a commanding position by the end of day three in the Buchi Babu tournament semifinal. Despite a resolute century from S. Rithik Easwaran, TNCA President’s XI was dismissed for 327, leaving Hyderabad with a substantial lead of 213 runs.
Easwaran’s innings of 100 off 140 balls, which included 9 fours and 2 sixes, was the highlight of TNCA President’s XI’s innings. He provided a crucial lead before his team was all out. Left-arm spinner Tanay Thyagarajan was the standout bowler for Hyderabad, claiming 7 wickets for 95 runs in 31.4 overs.
Hyderabad’s second innings got off to a rocky start as M. Mohammed and left-arm pacer Gurjapneet Singh quickly removed Rahul Singh and M. Abhirath within eight deliveries. Off-spinner S. Mohammed Ali also chipped in, dismissing Nitesh Kannala and leaving Hyderabad in a precarious position at 28 for three.
Rohit Rayudu (61 off 104 balls, with 7 fours and 1 six) and Hima Teja (37 off 81 balls, with 2 fours) steadied the innings with an 86-run fourth-wicket partnership. However, Gurjapneet (3 for 27) and Mohammed (3 for 39) struck again, reducing Hyderabad to 154 for seven.
A resilient 73-run eighth-wicket stand between T. Ravi Teja (33 not out off 56 balls, with 2 fours) and C.V. Milind (37 not out off 76 balls, with 1 four and 1 six) extended Hyderabad’s lead to 213 with three wickets still in hand.