PANAJI
Maharashtra keeper-batter Saurabh Nawale’s determined unbeaten 95 helped thwart an inspired Goa bowling attack, while helping his side secure a healthy 97-run lead in the sixth round Ranji Trophy Elite Group B match at the MCA Cricket Stadium, in Gahunje, Pune on Friday.
Resuming on an overnight 19 for no loss in their first essay, Maharashtra lost Arshin Kulkarni for 7 with the score on 37 caught behind by Harikant off pacer Vasuki Koushik. Shortly after, the other opener, Prithvi Shaw departed after a quickfire 31 claimed by the other Goa pacer, Arjun Tendulkar in a similar fashion.
One-down Niraj Joshi lost his wicket after making a patient 23 as the home side were reduced to 91/3 in the 26th over. With the Goa attack’s tail up, it required the seasoned hands of Ruturaj Gaikwad and captain, Ankit Bawane to stabilize the innings.
After realizing a 49-run fourth wicket alliance with Gaikwad, Bawane was snapped up by slow bowler, Amulya Pandrekar for 22. In walked keeper-batter Saurabh Nawale with resolve and purpose for a long stay. He waged a lone battle as he continued to lose partners after realizing promising partnerships.
Gaikwad played well for a 111-ball 66, while all-rounder Jalaj Saxena down the order made 22. Handy batter, Vicky Ostwal on 13 was providing company to a well-set Nawale on 95 (162b, 13x4) with an unseparated 32-run ninth wicket stand when stumps were drawn at 306/8 on Day 2.
In the Goa attack, all-rounder Lalit Yadav was the pick of the bowlers with returns of 3/95. Arjun Tendulkar snapped two wickets, while Vasuki Koushik, Darshan Misal and Amulya Pandrekar claimed a wicket apiece.
BRIEF SCORES
>Goa 1st Inns 209 in 82.1 overs (Snehal Kauthankar 73, Jalaj Saxena 6/79); Maharashtra 1st Inns 306/8 in 91 overs (Saurabh Nawale 95*, Ruturaj Gaikwad 66, Lalit Yadav 3/95) Maharashtra Lead By 97 runs
