Pacers put Delhi in command

Post News Network

 Cuttack, Feb 16: Delhi took command in their Ranji Trophy quarterfinal encounter against 40-time champions Mumbai at the DRIEMS ground in Tangi, Monday. After putting Mumbai into bat at the neutral venue, Delhi dismissed the opposition for a paltry 156 and in reply were 20 for the loss of Unmukt Chand’s wicket when stumps were drawn.

Mumbai were never in the reckoning and lost wickets on a regular basis against some good seam and swing bowling by Sumit Narwal (3/37), Pradeep Sangwan (2/26) and Parwinder Awana (1/27). With both Abhishek Nayar (10) and Suryakumar Yadav (10) failing with the bat, Mumbai at one time were facing the prospect of being bowled out for less than a hundred.

However, No. 7 batsman Nikhil Patil (54 n o, 116b, 1×4, 2×6) played a very responsible knock to take Mumbai past the 150-run mark. He batted with grit and determination on a pitch that had something for the pace bowlers. Wicket-keeper and opener Aditya Tare (39, 121b, 7×4) fought it out, but just when he looked like getting a big score he was dismissed by Narwal who had the batsman caught behind.

With the wicket aiding the pacers, if Mumbai can take a few early wickets Tuesday including that of Virender Sehwag, then they can come back into the game.

Brief scores: Mumbai 156 (Nikhil Patil 54 n o, Sumit Narwal 3/37); Delhi 20 for 1. Match to continue.