Dimapur, November 7 (MExN): The Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA) reported a thrilling Day 2 at the Ranji Trophy match between Nagaland and Sikkim, with Nagaland taking a slight lead. At the close of Day 2, Nagaland finished at 194/2 in 66 overs, holding a narrow 2-run lead over Sikkim, who were bowled out for 192 in 106 overs earlier in the day.
The standout performer of the day was Dega Nischal, whose remarkable century of 103* off 168 balls anchored Nagaland’s reply. His unbeaten knock was crucial in stabilizing the innings, with a valuable partnership with Hem Chetri, who remained at the crease for 59* off 124 balls. Together, they guided Nagaland to a slight advantage, providing a solid foundation for Day 3.
On the bowling front, Dip Borah was the hero for Nagaland, delivering a stellar performance with 5 wickets for 13 overs. His efforts dismantled Sikkim’s lineup, restricting them to a total of 192 runs and setting the stage for Nagaland’s batting response. Jonathan Rongsen and Jagadeesha Suchith also contributed with two wickets each, helping to bowl out Sikkim.
In the Sikkim camp, Ankur Malik and Lee Yong Lepcha, though steady, could not break the Nagaland partnership, with each claiming one wicket.
Meanwhile, at the Sovima Cricket Ground, Gujarat triumphed in the Cooch Behar Trophy by defeating Nagaland by an innings and 297 runs. Gujarat posted a formidable total of 410/4, thanks to Luv Padhiyar’s unbeaten 125. In response, Nagaland was bowled out for just 15 runs in the first innings, with Vraj Kaushik Desai taking an incredible 9 wickets for just 7 runs. Despite a brief resistance in the follow-on, Nagaland could only manage 98 runs, with Samir Ali contributing a valuable 20. Gujarat’s Rudra N Patel wrapped up the victory, claiming 5 wickets for 16 runs.
