Bengaluru, Aug 30 (UNI) North Zone’s batsmen continued their dominant run in the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal against East Zone at the BCCI Centre of Excellence here today.
After scoring 405 in the first innings, North Zone are now 388 for 2 in their second innings, leading East Zone by a massive 563 runs.
Captain Ankit Kumar remained unbeaten on 168 off 264 balls, while Yash Dhull scored a brilliant 133 off 157 deliveries. The duo shared a 240-run partnership for the second wicket, grinding down East Zone’s bowlers and virtually sealing a semifinal spot for North Zone. Ayush Badoni (56 not out) also chipped in with a patient 94-run stand with Ankit for the third wicket, further extending the lead.
East Zone struggled without Mukesh Kumar, who missed the match due to a thigh strain. Mohammed Shami bowled 11 overs without success, and the rest of the East Zone attack failed to make any significant impact.
The day also saw Dhull being dismissed by Riyan Parag shortly after tea, ending his innings of 133 with 14 fours and three sixes. Ankit, meanwhile, battled cramps but continued to add to his innings, eyeing a maiden first-class double century.
The match has drawn notable Indian cricket personalities to the stands. Mohammed Siraj, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, B Sai Sudharsan, Karun Nair, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Akash Deep, and Jitesh Sharma were all present, observing the game at the Centre of Excellence.
North Zone’s dominance has been built on consistency and flair, with both Dhull and Ankit displaying a combination of classical stroke play and innovative shots. Despite a few dropped catches, the East Zone bowlers were unable to halt the onslaught.
Day four will focus on whether Ankit Kumar can convert his unbeaten 168 into a first-class double century as North Zone look set to book their semifinal berth.
Scorecard at Stumps – Day 3
North Zone: 405 & 388/2 (Ankit Kumar 168*, Yash Dhull 133)
East Zone: 230 (Auqib Nabi 5-28)
