Sreevats stars in Bengal’s four wickets win over Andhra Pradesh
Kolkata: Mahendra Singh Dhoni failed to live up to its expectation as a finisher, as Jharkhand lost in a thriller against Karnataka by 5 runs in a Vijay Hazare Trophy match played at the Eden Gardens.
Put in to bat, Karnataka posted a decent 266 runs. Captain Manish Pandey and Samarth R top scored for their team, scoring 77 and 71 respectively. Rahul Shukla of Jharkhand returned with 4 wickets from 9 overs, giving a miserly 45 runs. Varun Aaron chipped in with two wickets.
In reply Jharkhand had a horrible start losing two wickets for 3 runs inside two overs. Jharkhand captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni failed to live up to his expectation as a finisher. The former India captain scored 43 runs before being bowled by T Pradeep. Sourabh Tiwary, who scored a defiant 68 runs failed to take his side home. Jharkhand failed to clinch the thriller as they fell short by just 5 runs, as Rahul Shukla ran himself out in the penultimate ball.
In another match Bengal made a perfect start in the Vijay Hazare trophy, as they defeated Andhra Pardesh by 4 wickets in IC Gurunanak College Ground in Chennai. Andhra posted a meager 225 runs from 50 overs, thanks to some tight bowling by the Bengal bowlers. In reply Bengal chased the target successfully with seven balls to spare. Sreevats Goswami top scored for Bengal with 66 runs while Anustup Majumder, making a comeback in Bengal colours scored 46 runs off 42 balls. Anustup also returned with two wickets from 6 overs.
Bengal captain Manoj Tiwary credited the team effort for the win. According to Manoj, “It was quite creditable to see the boys give off their best in such hot conditions. We started off well last season as well but failed to carry on the momentum. So, we must all stay focused.”
Under’19 fast bowler Ishan Porel was impressive in his maiden outing with the senior Bengal pros. The team management decided to give the youngster an opportunity. According to captain Manoj, “There was never a doubt about playing Ishan Porel. He has been a new find for the season.”
Anustup Majumder made a telling impression with his performance. The all-rounder scored a quick-fire 46 runs as well as picked two crucial wickets.
“When I got out, there were still some runs needed on the board. But Anustup played his role to perfection as a senior. It is a good sign for the team to have someone like Anustup.”
Bengal will play Goa next on February 28.