India A’s Shams Mulani played a heroic innings, scoring an unbeaten 88, to rescue his team from a precarious position of 93 for 5 on the opening day of their Duleep Trophy match against India D. Mulani’s knock, coupled with Tanush Kotian’s crucial 53, helped India A post a respectable total of 288 for 8 at stumps.
India A’s batting woes began early as Vidwath Kaverappa’s fiery spell reduced them to 21 for 2. However, Riyan Parag’s counterattacking 37 and Mulani’s steady presence at the crease provided some respite. But wickets continued to fall, with Tilak Varma, Shashwat Rawat, and Kumar Kushagra all departing cheaply.
With India A reeling at 144 for 6, Mulani and Kotian forged a crucial 91-run partnership for the seventh wicket. Kotian, known for his aggressive batting, struck six fours and a six in his 53-run knock. Mulani, on the other hand, played a more patient innings, anchoring the partnership and ensuring India A’s recovery.
Kotian’s dismissal to left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar brought Prasidh Krishna to the crease. The Karnataka seamer, making his comeback after a seven-month injury layoff, will have a chance to prove his fitness against a strong India D batting lineup on Friday.
India D, who were beaten outright in their previous game, will be eager to push the game forward and secure a victory. The match is poised for an exciting second day, with both teams looking to gain an advantage.
