Media365
Central Zone dominated the opening day of the Duleep Trophy quarter-final against North East Zone in Bengaluru on Thursday, reaching 432 for 2 in 77 overs before rain halted play. Danish Malewar of Vidarbha remained unbeaten on 198 while Rajat Patidar scored a quick 125 off 96 balls.The duo put on an impressive batting display, collectively hitting 56 boundaries. Malewar, who previously scored a century in the Ranji Trophy final last season, hit 35 fours and a six in his innings. Patidar’s aggressive knock included 21 fours and three sixes.The partnership between Malewar and Patidar began when opener Aryan Juyal, who was batting on 60, had to retire hurt after being struck in the abdominal region. They added 199 runs for the second wicket in just over 28 overs.Malewar, approaching 1,000 runs in his tenth first-class game, demonstrated exceptional batting skills. His third first-class century included 20 boundaries, with the hundredth run coming through a boundary.Patidar showed his class by hitting three consecutive reverse sweeps against North East Zone captain Rongsen Jonathan, who conceded 130 runs in 15 overs. He reached his 14th first-class century with a cover drive in the following over.
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Patidar’s innings ended when he attempted to sweep pacer Pheiroijam Jotin and was caught by Ankur Malik at deep square leg boundary.Following Patidar’s dismissal, Malewar formed another strong partnership with his Ranji teammate Yash Rathod. The pair added 85 runs for the unbroken third-wicket stand, with Rathod unbeaten on 32 when rain interrupted play.The 21-year-old Malewar is now on the verge of his maiden first-class double hundred, showcasing his potential as a rising talent in Indian domestic cricket.
