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The Duleep Trophy match between India B and India C witnessed a captivating battle between bat and ball, with Abhimanyu Easwaran's resilient century keeping India B in the contest despite Anshul Kamboj's destructive five-wicket haul for India C. Easwaran's unbeaten 143, a testament to his unwavering resolve, guided India B to a respectable 309 for 7, though they still face a significant deficit of 216 runs against India C's mammoth first-innings score of 525.
The third day of the match saw India B's batting order crumble under Kamboj's relentless pace and accuracy. Kamboj, a 23-year-old Haryana pacer who gained IPL experience with Mumbai Indians last season, struck early, removing the dangerous Narayan Jagadeesan for 70, thus breaking the 129-run opening partnership. He then proceeded to dismantle the middle order, dismissing the Khan brothers, Musheer and Sarfaraz, for paltry scores, and subsequently claiming the wickets of Rinku Singh and Nithis Kumar Reddy, leaving India B teetering at 194 for 5.
However, Easwaran, the India B captain, stood firm amidst the chaos, showcasing his unwavering determination and technical prowess. He formed crucial partnerships with Washington Sundar and Sai Kishore, rebuilding India B's innings and providing a much-needed sense of stability. At stumps, Easwaran remained unbeaten, sharing an important partnership with Rahul Chahar. India B, with just three wickets remaining, now face the daunting task of avoiding a follow-on, needing 66 more runs to reach India C's first innings score.
The match's outcome hinges on the decision of India C captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. With a comfortable lead, Gaikwad has the option of enforcing the follow-on, potentially securing a six-point victory. However, he could also choose to avoid the follow-on, given that India C are already guaranteed three points for their first innings lead. The last day of the match promises a tense finish, with India B desperately trying to salvage a draw while India C look to clinch a decisive win.
Source: Abhimanyu Easwaran Stands Firm For India B Even As Anshul Kamboj's Five-For Wreaks Havoc