Patna: At the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, Punjab took a first-innings lead of 127 runs over Bihar on the second day of their Ranji Trophy match. At stumps, Punjab had reached 262 for 8, with play ending early due to poor light. Bihar’s bowlers displayed commendable discipline, restricting Punjab’s batsmen and not allowing them to play freely after Bihar were bowled out for 135 in their first innings.
For Bihar, Sakib Hussain was the standout bowler with three wickets, while captain Veer Pratap Singh and Himanshu Singh each claimed two wickets. Sakibul Gani contributed with one wicket.
Punjab resumed their innings with an early setback as Bihar captain Veer Pratap Singh dismissed opener Prabhojat Singh for a duck at a team score of 10. Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, yet Punjab managed to build a respectable score thanks to patient innings from Jaskaranvir Singh Paul, Sanvir Singh, and Saleel Arora. Opener Jaskaranvir Singh Paul, who initially retired hurt, returned to the crease and remained unbeaten on 47, with Gurnur Brar providing support on 17 not out.
Key scores for Punjab included Anmolpreet Singh (30), Pukhraj Manam (33), Saleel Arora (64), and Sanvir Singh (47).
Bowling Figures for Bihar:
- Veer Pratap Singh: 2/37
- Sakib Hussain: 3/92
- Sakibul Gani: 1/44
- Himanshu Singh: 2/42
