PANAJI
Goa made a confident start in reply to Punjab’s total of 325, reaching 92 for no loss at stumps on the second day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group B clash at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. Openers Suyash Prabhudessai and Manthan Khutkar remained unbeaten, trimming the deficit to 233 runs.
Resuming from their overnight 215 for five, Punjab were eventually bowled out for 325 after a disciplined effort by the Goa bowlers. Skipper Uday Saharan, who began the day on 100, top-scored with a patient 126 off 306 balls, while wicketkeeper Salil Arora contributed a composed 63. The duo’s 164-run stand steadied Punjab before Goa struck back in the second session.
Darshan Misal led the bowling with figures of 3 for 72, supported by Deepraj Gaonkar (3 for 34) and Vasuki Koushik (2 for 51). Arjun Tendulkar and Mohit Redkar picked up a wicket apiece to wrap up the innings in 135.4 overs.
In reply, Goa’s openers started briskly, with Suyash Prabhudessai playing fluently for his unbeaten 58 off 62 balls, decorated with eight boundaries. Manthan Khutkar provided steady support with 32 not out from 84 balls. The pair added 92 runs in 24 overs, keeping the Punjab bowlers at bay and ensuring a solid foundation for the visitors heading into Day 3.
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SCOREBOX
Punjab 325 (Uday Saharan 126, Salil Arora 63; Darshan Misal 3-72, Deepraj Gaonkar 3-34) lead Goa 92/0 (Suyash Prabhudessai 58, Manthan Khutkar 32) by 233 runs
