Shubham Sharma struck a composed 122 as Central Zone extended their dominance over North East Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy clash at the BCCI COE Ground 2. His innings, built over 215 deliveries and featuring 17 boundaries, ensured Central kept firm control after gaining a huge first-innings advantage.
Patidar and Rathod Add to the Pressure
Captain Rajat Patidar continued his fine form with a brisk 66 off 72 balls, decorated with six fours and three sixes. Yash Rathod, too, impressed with a fluent 78 off 83 deliveries, smashing 11 boundaries. Together, the trio piled on the misery before Central Zone declared at 331/7 in 80.3 overs, setting up the prospect of an innings defeat for their opponents.
North East Collapse Quickly
Resuming at 179/7 in the first innings, North East Zone folded for just 185. Khaleel Ahmed removed Tamang early, while Deepak Chahar and Khaleel struck again to finish off the tail. Ankur Malik’s fighting 42 was the only resistance.
Central Zone Batters Shine Again
With opener Aryan Juyal unavailable after being hit in the abdomen earlier, Danish Malewar was promoted but fell for 15. Bishworjit Konthoujam provided some hope with three early wickets, yet Shubham and Patidar steadied Central’s innings with a 122-run stand. Rathod later added his second consecutive half-century of the match, further demoralizing the North East bowlers.
Declaration at Stumps
After some late fireworks from Deepak Chahar (21* with two fours and a six), Central Zone declared to close the day in a commanding position. With a massive overall lead, North East Zone now face an uphill battle to avoid a heavy defeat.
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