Rest of India (RoI) batter Abhimanyu Easwaran narrowly missed out on a double century on Day 4 of the Irani Cup final against Mumbai in Lucknow. Easwaran’s dismissal on 191 runs off 292 balls, including one six and 16 fours, left him visibly frustrated.
The incident occurred in the 103rd over of RoI’s innings, bowled by Shams Mulani. Easwaran attempted to sweep a flighted delivery outside leg, but the ball ballooned off the top edge and was easily caught by Tanush Kotian at short leg.
Easwaran’s anger stemmed from his shot selection, as he was just nine runs short of his double century. His innings was a testament to his resilience and determination, as he anchored RoI’s response to Mumbai’s first-innings total of 537.
In response, RoI showed great resistance, reaching 416 thanks largely to Easwaran’s contribution. India star Dhruv Jurel also made a significant contribution with an impressive 93, while the rest of the RoI batters struggled to make an impact.
On Day 3, RoI made quick work of Mumbai’s innings, with Mukesh Kumar dismissing Mohammed Juned to end the innings at 537. Sarfaraz Khan remained unbeaten on 222 off 286 balls, with 25 fours and four sixes. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane (97 off 234 balls, with seven fours and a six) and Shreyas Iyer (57 off 84 balls, with six fours and two sixes) had stabilized the innings after Mumbai was reduced to 37/3.
Tanush Kotian (64 off 124 balls, with six fours) and Shardul Thakur (36 off 59 balls, with four boundaries and a six) also made valuable contributions. Mukesh (5/110) was the top bowler for RoI, while Yash Dayal and Prasidh Krishna took two wickets each. Saransh Jain claimed one scalp.
