Hyderabad is on the verge of winning the Buchi Babu tournament after taking a crucial first-innings lead against Chhattisgarh and setting a massive target of 518 runs on the penultimate day at the NPR College ground.
Chhattisgarh, resuming their innings at 145 for eight, was bowled out for 181. Gagandeep Singh’s valiant half-century (59*) was the only bright spot, but his team conceded a significant 236-run deficit.
In their second innings, Hyderabad’s batters dominated, with skipper Rahul Singh leading the charge. Rahul smashed a brisk 68 off 87 balls, including eight boundaries and two sixes, taking his team to 111 for one at lunch. He and M. Abhirath Reddy (39) put together a solid 95-run stand for the second wicket, putting Hyderabad firmly in control.
However, after tea, Jeevesh Bhutte turned the game momentarily with a remarkable spell of six for 56. The off-spinner quickly ran through Hyderabad’s middle-order, taking four wickets in quick succession. Hyderabad, looking for quick runs, was eventually bowled out for 281 by the end of the day’s play.
Chhattisgarh faces an uphill task on the final day, needing a miracle from their batters to chase down the daunting target of 518 and deny Hyderabad the trophy.
Scores:
- Hyderabad 417 & 281 in 70.2 overs (Rahul Singh 68, Rahul Radesh 41, Jeevesh Bhutte 6/56)
- Chhattisgarh 181 in 70.2 overs (Gagandeep Singh 59*, Aniket Reddy 4/56)
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