Guwahati: Sumit, Sibsankar rescue Assam after poor start in Ranji Trophy match at ACA Stadium

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: A well-crafted unbeaten century by Sumit Gadhiganokar and a patience half century from Sib Sankar Roy helped Assam to recover from an early setback and steady their innings against Railways in the Ranji Trophy match at the ACA Stadium here on Saturday. Chasing Railways’ first-innings total of 250, Assam were 175-4 at stumps on Day 2. Sumit remained unbeaten on 100, receiving support from Sarupam Purkayastha, who was on 15.

Assam’s run chase began poorly, with the team reduced to 3-2 within the first five overs. Opener Parvez Aziz departed without scoring, followed by Rishav Das (1) and captain Denish Das (0), leaving the side in deep trouble.

The much-needed stability came when Sumit Ghadiganokar joined Sib Sankar Roy at the crease. The pair added a crucial 129-run partnership for the fourth wicket, rescuing Assam from the precarious position. Both batters displayed excellent composure, relying on singles and doubles  apart from hitting boundaries to keep the scoreboard ticking. Sumit reached his half-century first, followed by Sib Sankar.

However, Railways struck immediately after the tea break, dismissing Sib Sankar on the first ball of the third session. The left-hander was trapped LBW after a gritty 56 off 101 balls, including seven boundaries. Sumit continued his innings and brought up his second century of the season, showcasing his fine form in the competition. His unbeaten 100 came off 159 balls and included 11 boundaries and a six. Railways bowlers Himanshu Sangwan and Kunal Yadav picked up two wickets each in the innings.

Earlier, Railways resumed the third day’s play at 198-5, with overnight batters Upendra Yadav and BH Merai frustrating the Assam bowlers in the early part of the morning session. The partnership was finally broken at 234, after which Railways collapsed, losing their last five wickets for just 16 runs.

Upendra Yadav, who resumed the day’s play unbeaten on 82, completed a fine century, scoring 103 off 215 balls with 10 boundaries and a six. His partner, BH Merai, contributed 63 off 132 balls, including eight fours.

Among Assam’s bowlers, Mukhtar Hussain was the standout performer, finishing with impressive figures of 4-24. He was well-supported by Akash Sengupta (3-57), Mrinmoy Dutta (2-59), and Rahul Singh (1-58).

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