Dinesh Mongia gives Rest slim lead
A responsible knock of 125 by Punjab southpaw Dinesh Mongia and his fifth wicket stand of 172 runs
with Ajay Ratra (61) enabled Rest of India gain a vital 13-run
lead over Ranji champions Baroda on the third day of the Irani
Trophy cricket match in Nagpur on Monday.
Baroda, who had made 318 in their first innings, were 124
for two in their second knock, with their Connor Williams
chipping in with a stylish 83 before being caught off the last
ball of the day, and former India stumper Nayan Mongia was
batting on 31.
Resuming at their overnight score of 179 for four, Mongia and Ratra played some fine shots all around the wicket.
Their determined efforts gave some relief to their side before
Ratra was trapped leg before by Irfan Pathan (Sr) with the
score on 264.
Mongia, 47 overnight, played some fine drives and lofted
shots off his front foot before completing his half
century.
He cruised along with some fluent drives on either side
of the wicket and hoisted off-spinner Umang Patel twice over
midwicket for sixes.
Meanwhile, Ratra prospered in the company of Mongia and
showed a fine array of shots and agility in running between
the wickets and the pair took the total past the 250 mark and
Mongia completed his century with a push to mid-on.
Mongia was joined by Sharandeep Singh and the two added 20
runs before Singh departed caught and bowled by Valmik Buch
for 10.
Mail Cricket Editor
