Bihar Bipin Saurabh after scoring century
By A Correspondent
Patna: Bihar tightened their grip on the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 Plate Group final by extending their first innings to a commanding total on the second day of the title clash against Manipur. At the close of play at the Moinul Haq Stadium here, Bihar had posted 522 runs in 135.5 overs, leaving Manipur trailing by a daunting 393 runs.
Resuming the day at 328 for seven, Bihar’s lower order batted with discipline and patience to consolidate the advantage. Wicketkeeper-batter Bipin Saurabh played a responsible and fluent knock, scoring 143 off 189 deliveries, studded with 12 fours and two sixes. Suraj Kashyap added valuable support with an unbeaten 83, while Khalid contributed 37 and Prashant Kumar Singh chipped in with 13.
Captain Sakibul Gani’s century (108) on the opening day had laid a solid foundation, which the remaining batters utilised effectively to push the total well beyond the 500-run mark.
Photo: BCA
For Manipur, Rex was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 117 runs from 32 overs, including six maidens. Jotin Feiroijam and Bishwarjeet picked up two wickets apiece, while Kishan Singha took one, but the Bihar batters ensured a prolonged stay at the crease.
In reply, Manipur began cautiously. Karnajeet Yadav made 21, Ulenyai Khwairakpam scored 26, and Basheed added 13. By stumps on day two, Manipur were 129 for three in their first innings, with Ronald M unbeaten on 38 and Johnson on 22.
For Bihar, Himanshu Singh and Khalid claimed one wicket each, while Suraj Kashyap bowled with control to keep the scoring rate in check.
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