CK Nayudu Trophy
By Our Reporter
Shillong, Jan 30: Kerala made the most of favourable bowling conditions after opting to field on the opening day of their BCCI Col. C.K. Nayudu Trophy encounter against Meghalaya at the Alotgre Cricket Ground in Tura on Thursday.
The decision paid immediate dividends as Meghalaya were skittled out for a modest 106 in their first innings. Josiah Momin offered the only significant resistance for the hosts, top-scoring with a patient 34 off 62 deliveries.
Kerala’s bowlers maintained tight lines and consistent pressure throughout the innings. J.S. Anuraj led the attack with an impressive spell, returning figures of four wickets from five overs, while Pavan Raj and Jishnu provided strong support, picking up three wickets apiece.
In response, Kerala asserted their dominance with the bat, reaching 168 for two by stumps to secure a healthy first-innings lead of 62 runs. Opener Akshay S.S. anchored the innings with a composed 73 off 119 balls before falling leg-before to Manish Sharma.
Meghalaya did manage to strike early when Denikcheng Marak removed one of the Kerala openers, offering a brief glimmer of hope. However, Varun Nayanar ensured Kerala remained firmly in control, finishing the day unbeaten on 71 off 135 balls as the visitors closed Day 1 in a commanding position.
