VIDARBHA made a strong reply against Uttar Pradesh on the second day of their three-day group league match of U-14 Raj Singh Dungarpur Trophy (Multi-Day) in Meerut on Friday. After restricting Uttar Pradesh at 300, Vidarbha were 93 for two at stumps. Resuming on their overnight score of 194-5, UP’s lower order offered stiff resistance as their last five wickets added another 106 runs before being bowled out in 100.4 overs. Rudraveer, unbeaten on 67 overnight, top-scored with 87, while Malay Kanyal (34) and skipper Prithviraj Singh Chauhan (37 NO) chipped in with useful runs.

For Vidarbha, captain Jayesh Kumbhare emerged as the most successful bowler, picking up three wickets for 70 runs.

Vibarbha made a strong start with their openers Kush Sharma (37) and Manav Wakode (40 batting) adding 83 runs in only 19.3 overs. Kush and Suleman Ali (3) fell in quick succession, leaving Vidarbha needing 208 runs on the final day with eight wickets in hand in order to clinch the vital first innings lead which will ensure a semi-final spot.

Brief scores (at close Day 2): UP 1st innings: 300 all out in 100.4 overs (Rudraveer 87, Navdeep 81, Malay Kanyal 34, Prithviraj Singh Chauhan 37 NO; Jayesh Kumbhare 3-70, Agranya Chatterjee 2-19). Vidarbha 1st innings: 93-2 in 22.1 overs (Kush Sharma 37, Manav Wakode 40 batting).