Published: Dec 22, 2018, 08:50 PM (IST)
Edited: Dec 22, 2018, 08:50 PM (IST)
A century from captain Rahul Tripathi gave Maharashtra a timely boost as they recovered to take control of their Ranji Trophy, Elite A, round 7 tie against Chhattisgarh on Day 1. From the depths of 91/7, the visitors were powered by Tripathi’s 102 off 145 as they were bowled out for 239 in 68.3 overs.
Anupam Sanklecha then struck thrice and blew away Chhattisgarh’s top order as the hosts finished the day on 23/3, trailing by 216 runs.
Tripathi must have been regretting his decision to bat first in Raipur after winning the toss. The openers made a cautious start adding 36 runs before a collapse. From 36/0, they slump to 46/4 with Ruturaj Gaikwad, experienced Kedar Jadhav and captain Ankeet Bawne failing to open their accounts.
Swapnil Gugale gave his skipper support in a brief recovery before the innings slipped again. The duo had added 40 runs to stem the rot before Gugale’s departure triggerred another collapse. At 91/7, Maharashtra’s innings was nearing its end.
However, Tripathi found excellent partner in Anupam Sanklecha who scored 66 off 80 with 10 fours and two sixes and was the last man to be dismissed before starring with the ball as well.
Tripathi scored his sixth first-class century with the help of 14 fours and a six.
For Chhattisgarh, Vishal Singh took 4/59 while Pankaj Kumar Rao returned figures of 3/32.
Brief Scores: Chhattisgarh 23/3 (Anupam Sanklecha 3/11) trail Maharashtra 239 (Rahul Tripathi 102, Anupam Sanklecha 66; Vishal Singh 4/59) by 216 runs Maharashtra
