Tanmay Agarwal, the prolific Hyderabad opener, continued his impressive run in the Ranji Trophy with a magnificent century on the opening day of their Elite Group B match against Andhra at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad.
Agarwal, who has amassed over 10,000 runs in first-class cricket, notched up his 15th Ranji Trophy century, a knock of 124 off 240 deliveries, studded with 10 boundaries and a six. His innings was crucial in helping Hyderabad post a competitive 244 for five at the end of the day’s play.
Agarwal’s innings was characterized by his trademark grit and determination. He was fortunate to survive a dropped catch on 20, but made Andhra pay dearly for their lapse in concentration. The right-hander played some exquisite strokes, particularly off Andhra’s left-arm spinner A. Lalith Mohan, including a towering six over long-off.
Despite the early dropped catches, Andhra’s fielding was generally poor, with Hyderabad openers Abhirath Reddy and Agarwal both being given lifelines. Reddy was dropped twice, while Agarwal was grassed once.
Andhra’s pacer Mohammed Rafi was the pick of the bowlers, testing even the well-set Agarwal with his teasing off-stump line. However, the Hyderabad batsman remained unfazed, showcasing his class and experience.
Hyderabad’s innings was not without its setbacks. Abhirath Reddy (35) and Rohit Rayudu (0) were dismissed cheaply, while captain G. Rahul Singh (1) failed to get going. However, K. Himateja (36) and K. Nitesh Reddy (22) provided valuable contributions, before Rahul Radesh (22 not out) and Agarwal put on an unbeaten 44-run stand to ensure Hyderabad ended the day on a positive note.
Andhra’s wicketkeeper K. Srikar Bharat was in fine form behind the stumps, effecting a smart stumping to dismiss Nitesh Reddy.
