TNCA XI, led by three half-centurions, put up a formidable 294 for five on the opening day of the Buchi Babu tournament fixture against Mumbai in Chennai.
Pradosh Ranjan Paul (65 off 87 balls) and B. Indrajith (61 off 115 balls) shared a 74-run stand for the third wicket, while No. 5 batter Boopathi Vaishna Kumar (63 not out off 121 balls) remained unbeaten at stumps.
Paul, known for his late cuts and quick running, played a patient innings, hitting four boundaries and seven twos. He was eventually trapped in front of the wicket by Tanush Kotian.
Indrajith, who has been in impressive form with three consecutive fifty-plus scores, was dismissed by off-spinner Himanshu Singh after a chanceless knock.
The day’s proceedings were briefly interrupted by a drizzle in the afternoon. However, the highlight of the day came at the end of the 90th over.
Shreyas Iyer, bowling with an action similar to Sunil Narine, was fielding in the deep-midwicket boundary. Suryakumar Yadav, who was fielding nearby, was swarmed by young fans seeking autographs and pictures.
Undeterred, Iyer continued to bowl while Yadav obliged as many requests as possible. As the final ball of the day was bowled, R. Sonu Yadav deposited it over Suryakumar’s head, sending the fans into a frenzy.
The match is poised for an exciting second day at the Sri Ramakrishna College Cricket Ground.
