By Our Reporter
Shillong, Dec 17: Meghalaya, resuming their innings at 137/4 after dismissing Mizoram for 179 on the previous day, showcased a commendable performance, concluding their first innings at 215 all out. At the close of play, Mizoram found themselves struggling at 160/6 in the second innings.
Dipayan Nandi, starting the day with a score of 59, bolstered Meghalaya’s efforts with a significant contribution of 78 before departing. Despite the early setbacks, Meghalaya managed to surpass Mizoram’s total and breach the 200-run mark, primarily thanks to the remarkable efforts of No. 9 Benedict Jones Makdoh (23) and No. 11 Manthan Gupta (21 not out). This resilient pair added precisely 50 runs for the last wicket, causing frustration for the opposing team.While Dinpuia led Mizoram’s batting with 58 at the top of the order, four of his teammates succumbed for 5 or fewer runs. However, the first-innings centurion, Peka, played a crucial role by finishing the day unbeaten on 62. His wicket will be a prized target for Meghalaya in the upcoming day of play.Continuing his outstanding form, Apandanka Marak claimed 3/58 in 16.4 overs, leading Meghalaya’s bowling attack. Manthan (1/13 in 10), Paisal Ali (1/15 in 6), and Gaurav Jyoti Thakuria (1/56 in 19) also made significant contributions, each taking a wicket for Meghalaya. The stage is set for an intense battle on the following day as Meghalaya aims to capitalize on their advantageous position against Mizoram.
As the day concluded, Meghalaya’s cricketing prowess shone brightly, both with the bat and the ball, placing them in a commanding position against Mizoram. The resilient efforts of the lower-order batsmen, particularly Benedict Jones Makdoh and Manthan Gupta, also underscored the team’s batting depth.
