Shillong– Meghalaya’s batting lineup will need to rise to the occasion to save their Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group A match, after being forced to follow on by Tripura on the third day at the MCA Ground.
Tripura declared their first innings at 377/8, gaining a commanding 155-run lead, before dismissing Meghalaya for 222 in their first innings.
At stumps, Meghalaya was 3/0 in their second innings, still trailing by 152 runs. A draw seems to be their best chance of avoiding defeat if they can bat through the final day.
The highlight of Meghalaya’s first innings was guest professional Ajay Duhan, who anchored the innings with a resolute unbeaten 93 off 198 deliveries. Duhan, coming in at No. 3, displayed grit and determination, hitting 13 boundaries and a six. He brought up his fifty with a hook shot over fine leg and remained composed despite being dropped on 85, as he tried to steer Meghalaya away from the follow-on.
However, Meghalaya’s other batters struggled to build on their starts. Bamanbha Shangpliang contributed 23 at the top, while Kishan Lyngdoh scored a quick 21 off 15 balls. Tripura’s pacer MB Mura Singh was the chief destroyer, claiming 6/52 in 26.4 overs, dismantling Meghalaya’s middle order.
Duhan found some support from Akash Kumar Choudhary, who chipped in with 23 runs during a crucial 49-run stand for the seventh wicket. Despite Duhan’s best efforts, Meghalaya fell short of avoiding the follow-on.
Bad light curtailed play early on day three, allowing Meghalaya’s openers some respite before the final day. However, they will face a stern test from Tripura’s bowlers as they attempt to bat out the day and salvage a draw.
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