Ranji Trophy: Sharath, Nischal spur Karnataka

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Nagpur, November 14: After two middling days, Karnataka on Wednesday (November 14) came up with a determined effort that ensured them at least of a first innings lead against Vidarbha on the third day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A fixture at the VCA stadium here.

Started the day 99 runs in arrears of Vidarbha's first innings total of 307, Karnataka made 378 all out in their first innings for a lead of 71 runs. Vidarbha erased the lead by close reaching 72 but lost two wickets in the form of Faiz Fazal and Sanjay Ramaswamy.

Now, Vidarbha might not have enough time in their hands to set Karnataka a meaningful target and then bowl them out. Karnataka owe that position of command to centurions D Nischal (113, 338b, 10x4) and debutant wicketkeeper batsman B R Sharath (103, 161b, 20x4), who became the ninth Karnataka batsman to make a hundred on Ranji Trophy debut.

Nischal and Sharath, the more aggressive of the duo, added a fine 240 runs for the sixth wicket that might have just turned this match decisively in favour of Karnataka.

Brief scores: Vidarbha 307 all out and 72/2 in 28 overs vs Karnataka: 378 all out in 134 overs (D Nischal 113, BR Sharath 103, R Vinay Kumar 39 n.o; A Sarvate 5/91).