In a thrilling Duleep Trophy 2024 clash, Ricky Bhui’s gritty century delayed the inevitable, but India D eventually succumbed to a 186-run defeat against India A. The match, held in Anantapur, saw spinners Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian dominate India D’s batting lineup, securing India A’s victory. Despite Bhui’s defiance, India D fell short, and India A remains in the hunt for the Duleep Trophy title.
Ricky Bhui’s Century Keeps India D in the Fight
Ricky Bhui started the day on 44 and went on to score a remarkable 113 off 195 balls, which included 14 fours and 3 sixes. His century showcased his resilience against India A’s relentless bowling attack. However, his effort wasn’t enough to turn the tide for India D, who were chasing a massive target of 488 runs.
Bhui’s knock was a mix of patience and aggression, but he found little support from the rest of his team. His second-wicket partnership with Yash Dubey added 100 runs, which gave India D a glimmer of hope. Unfortunately, Dubey was run out for 37, leaving Bhui to battle on his own against the spinning duo of Mulani and Kotian.
Shams Mulani’s Key Interventions
Shams Mulani, who later won Player of the Match, played a crucial role in breaking India D’s partnerships at critical moments. He bowled out Devdutt Padikkal soon after Dubey’s departure, pushing India D into deeper trouble. Mulani’s ability to spin the ball sharply on a pitch that offered plenty of assistance made him a constant threat.
Mulani didn’t stop there. He clean-bowled Shreyas Iyer for 41, just when Iyer and Bhui were beginning to build another partnership. His delivery sharply turned past Iyer’s bat, shattering the stumps and ending a 53-run stand. Mulani then dismissed Sanju Samson for 40, another key breakthrough that ended a promising 62-run partnership with Bhui.
Bhui’s Solo Effort
Despite the wickets falling around him, Bhui held his ground and reached his century off 170 balls. His determination and stroke play kept India D’s hopes alive for much of the day. But as the pressure mounted, Bhui finally fell to Tanush Kotian, holing out to Riyan Parag in the deep. His dismissal marked the end of India D’s resistance.
Tanush Kotian’s Late Breakthroughs
Tanush Kotian, India A’s off-spinner, also played a vital role in wrapping up India D’s innings. After removing Saransh Jain for 5, Kotian took the crucial wicket of Bhui, which effectively ended India D’s challenge. He continued his fine form by dismissing Saurabh Kumar and Harshit Rana, adding three wickets to his tally. His efforts, combined with Mulani’s early strikes, ensured India A’s dominant win.
India A’s Path to the Final
With this win, India A secured 6 points and kept their hopes alive for the Duleep Trophy 2024 title. Their next match against India C, the table-toppers with 9 points, will be decisive. India A must secure a favorable result to have a shot at the title.
India D’s Struggles Continue
For India D, this defeat marks their second consecutive loss in the tournament. With no points on the board, they are officially out of the title race. Their final match against India B, who have 7 points, will be an opportunity for India D to salvage some pride before exiting the competition.
Conclusion
Ricky Bhui’s brilliant century stood out in an otherwise disappointing performance for India D. Despite his best efforts, the combined spin attack of Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian proved too much for India D to handle. India A’s comprehensive 186-run victory keeps them in contention for the Duleep Trophy 2024, while India D must regroup and prepare for their final match against India B. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
