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Xtra Time Web Desk: Abhimanyu Easwaran has strengthened his claim for a spot in the Indian Test team. Though he failed in the first innings against Uttar Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy, he scored a century in the second innings. This marks his fourth consecutive century in first-class matches. However, Bengal couldn't secure a win, as the match against Uttar Pradesh ended in a draw. Bengal earned three points due to their first-innings lead. Priyam Garg's century prevented Bengal from winning.

Abhimanyu resumed his innings at 78 and quickly scored his 27th century in first-class cricket. This was his fifth century in the last nine innings. Bengal declared their innings at 254/3, setting Uttar Pradesh a target of 274 runs to win.

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By then, the pitch in Lucknow had deteriorated significantly, showing clear signs of wear. Though Bengal’s bowlers dismissed Uttar Pradesh’s top order, Priyam Garg fought on alone. At the end of the day, Uttar Pradesh stood at 162/6.

Despite overcast skies in the morning, Uttar Pradesh's bowlers failed to get any swing, and they couldn't unsettle Bengal’s openers. While Abhimanyu scored a century, Sudip Chatterjee missed out on one, getting dismissed for 93 by Saurabh Kumar. He lost his chance to score a century in both innings.

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Sudip Gharami and Abhishek Porel were dismissed in consecutive deliveries. However, Abhimanyu held the innings together, scoring consistently. Bengal declared a few minutes after the lunch break.

Aryan Juyal was dismissed on the second ball of Uttar Pradesh’s innings by Mukesh Kumar. Mohammed Kaif then removed Swastik Chikara and Siddharth Yadav in quick succession, putting Uttar Pradesh under pressure. However, Priyam, along with Nitish Rana, fought back. After Rana's dismissal, Bengal’s bowlers relentlessly attacked Priyam with short-pitched deliveries aimed at his chest, groin, and ribs. Despite taking several blows, Priyam fought on, scoring a century and securing a point for his team.