Bhatia claims five wickets; Railways 207 for nine

Dharamsala, Jan 10 (UNI) A five-wicket haul by Himachal's V Bhatia pushed Railways to the backfoot as ther were precariously placed at 207 for nine at close of the first day's play in the five-day Ranji Trophy Plate league semi-final tie here today.

Electing to bat afater winning the toss, Railway top order except TP Singh (54) and Sanjay Bangar (30), failed to negotiate the hosts bowlers.

Singh showed grit and application to score a half century off 102 balls, hitting seven fours in the process. He also shared 91-run stand for the second wicket with Bangar.

S Sanyal (34) and SR Saxena (7) were at the crease at the draw of stumps.

For Himachal, VS Malik and Sarandeep Singh took two wickets apiece, besides Bhatia's five for 52.

Brief Scores: Railways 1st innings; 207 for nine (TP Singh 54, Sanjay Bangar 30, S Sanyal batting 34; V Bhatia 5/52) UNI