Bhubaneswar: Odisha registered a convincing 52-run win over Saurashtra in their match of the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket tournament at Delhi, Thursday. This was Odisha’s second win in seven matches, including one being washed out.
Chasing a descent but competitive total of 198-run target, Saurashtra were bowled out for 145 in 38.4 overs. The only notable partnership was forged between Sheldon Jackson (40, 50b, 4×4, 3×6) and Samarth Vyas (19, 31b, 3×4) when the duo added 57 runs for the second wicket after the early dismissal of Robin Uthappa.
However, once the partnership was broken, wickets kept falling at regular intervals with Arpit Vasavada (35, 68b, 1×4, 1×6) looking his side’s downfall at the other end. Odisha skipper Govind Poddar (3/33) was the most successful bowler while Papu Roy (2/19) supported him well.
Earlier, opting to bat first, Odisha lost both the openers quickly to be reduced to 11/2 in 2.3 overs. However, Govind (33, 65b, 4×4) and Shantanu Mishra (31, 46b, 2×4) added 57 runs for the third wicket to lay the foundation for a competitive total. Saurashtra got both the wickets in quick succession to bring the momentum back.
However, it was the 91-run fifth wicket stand between Biplab Samantray (62, 79b, 3×4, 2×6) and Abhishek Rout (36, 74b, 1×4) that changed the complexion of the game. But once the partnership was broken, Saurashtra wrapped up the tail with ease and restricted Odisha below 200. Jaydev Unadkat (3/39) bowled well for the losing side.
Brief scores: Odisha 197 (Biplab Samantray 62; Jaydev Unadkat 3/39) beat Saurashtra 145 (Sheldon Jackson 40; Govind Poddar 3/33) by 52 runs.
