Synopsis
Paras Dogra's impressive performance in the Ranji Trophy match against Kerala has brought Jammu & Kashmir close to their first semifinal appearance. His vital century of 132 runs has significantly boosted the team's chances, establishing a commanding lead.Key Takeaways
- Paras Dogra scored his first century of the season.
- J&K established a 398-run lead over Kerala.
- Crucial partnerships helped J&K strengthen their position.
- Despite strong batting, the match remains delicately poised.
- Dogra's innings included 13 boundaries and two sixes.
Pune, Feb 11 (NationPress) As Jammu & Kashmir stands on the brink of achieving a remarkable first-ever Ranji Trophy semifinal, the seasoned batsman and captain Paras Dogra rose to the occasion, scoring his first First-Class century of the season after 14 innings and eight matches. He crafted a magnificent 132 runs off 232 balls, propelling his team to 399/9 in the second innings and establishing an impressive 398-run lead over Kerala.
Even with J&K in a strong position, the match remains finely balanced, as Kerala ended Day 4 at 100/2, still trailing by 299 runs. On the final day, Kerala aims to survive three sessions, while J&K’s bowlers are set to rise to the occasion for a fairytale conclusion.
Dogra’s innings showcased his patience and skill, as he withstood Kerala’s pace assault before showcasing his signature fluidity. He built two vital partnerships—a 146-run collaboration with Kanhaiya Wadhawan, followed by a 50-run partnership with Sahil Lotra—ensuring J&K extended their lead to a formidable level.
The experienced batsman played each ball judiciously, finding the ideal balance between caution and aggression. His innings included 13 boundaries and two sixes, with Wadhawan contributing 64 runs off 116 balls, marking another fifty in a promising season.
Kerala’s pacers N.P. Basil and M.D. Nidheesh made early appeals, but Dogra seized his opportunities, steadily accumulating runs and asserting his dominance with elegant boundaries. Wadhawan, poised for his maiden century, fell after edging a simple catch to Sachin Baby at slip off Basil, but Dogra remained composed, keeping J&K in control.
Dogra’s desire for runs shone through as he raced to his 32nd First-Class century, with Sahil Lotra providing solid support. Lotra’s aggressive 59 off 77 balls (6x4, 1x6) helped maintain the momentum as J&K applied pressure.
However, after reaching his century, Dogra sought to accelerate but was bowled out by Aditya Sarvate. M.D. Nidheesh then struck twice quickly, achieving another four-wicket haul as Kerala finally managed to halt the run flow late in the innings.
Brief scores:
Jammu & Kashmir 280 & 399/9 decl in 100.2 overs (Paras Dogra 132, Kanhaiya Wadhawan 64, Sahil Lotra 59; M.D. Nidheesh 4-89, Nedumankuzhy Basil 2-100, Aditya Sarwate 2-76) lead Kerala 281 & 100/2 in 36 overs (Rohan Kunnummal 36, Akshay Chandran 32 not out; Yudhvir Singh 2-31) by 298 runs.
