Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, August 3: Despite a brilliant bowling performance by left-arm spinner Jayant Behera (6/99), Himachal Pradesh took a crucial 101 runs first innings lead against Orissa with one wicket still in hand at stumps on the second day of their four-day match of the All India K Thimmappiah Memorial cricket tournament at Bangalore, Monday.
In reply to Orissa’s first innings score of 203, Himachal Pradesh who resumed at their overnight score of 39 for one batted steadily to achieve the first innings lead. Opener Prashant Chopra (62, 115b, 5×4, 1×6) put on 81 runs for the second wicket with Amit Kumar Dhiman (45, 64b, 7×4) to put HP in a strong position.
After Dhiman’s departure at 84, Chopra put on another 52 runs for the third wicket with Sumeet Verma (27). The innings then was propped up by Ankit Kalsi (51, 99b, 4×4). Orissa bowlers then, for a short period, took control of proceedings as they picked up four quick wickets in the space of 42 runs.
However, some late-order hitting by Akash Vasist (41 batting, 55b, 7×4) took HP past the 300-run mark. He put on 59 runs for the ninth wicket to dash Orissa’s hopes of a quick comeback.
Jayant, who bowls left-arm orthodox, troubled all the HP batters. However, he lacked support from the others. Only Alok Chandra Sahoo (2/66) managed some success.
Brief scores: Orissa 203; Himachal Pradesh 304 for nine (Prashant Chopra 62, Ankit Kalsi 51; Jayant Behera 6/99) Match to continue.