Ishan Kishan’s 100 drives India C to strong position in Duleep Trophy round match

Ishan Kishan’s blistering century of 111 off 126 deliveries set the tone for India C as they ended Day 1 at a commanding 357 for 5 against India B in the second round of the Duleep Trophy at the Rural Development Trust Stadium, Anantapur.

Ishan Kishan etched his name in the record books with a scintillating knock of 210 not out in the third ODI against Bangladesh in December 2022. The young wicketkeeper-batsman unleashed a stunning display of power hitting, taking just 131 deliveries to reach his monumental double century. His innings, which included 24 boundaries and 10 towering sixes, helped India post an imposing total of 409 for 8.

Kishan’s explosive innings set the stage for a comprehensive 227-run victory for India, as Bangladesh faltered under the pressure of the massive target. At just 24 years old, Kishan became the youngest and fastest player to score a double century in ODI cricket, achieving the milestone in just 126 balls.

Put in to bat by India B, India C skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad began the day with a boundary but retired hurt shortly after twisting his ankle while attempting a quick single. He returned later in the day to contribute an unbeaten 42 from 44 balls.

Rajat Patidar and Sai Sudharsan put on a solid 92-run partnership for the first wicket before both were dismissed in quick succession. Patidar was bowled by Navdeep Saini for 40, while Sudharsan was caught off Mukesh Kumar’s bowling for 43.

Ishan Kishan, who put on an impressive show with 14 boundaries and three sixes, then teamed up with Baba Indrajith (78) for a 189-run stand that took the game away from India B’s bowlers. The duo frustrated the bowling attack for over 40 overs, driving India C past the 300-run mark.

Mukesh Kumar, India B’s standout bowler with figures of 3 for 76, finally broke the partnership by dismissing Kishan. Indrajith followed soon after, bowled by Rahul Chahar. Towards the close of play, Abhishek Porel was trapped lbw by Mukesh for 12, while Manav Suthar hit two boundaries to end the day.

India B will look to restrict further damage when play resumes on Day 2, while India C will aim to capitalise on their strong start.