Combined made some quick inroads as paceman BN Bharath (2/43) struck early in the innings. Binny, who struck a crucial half-century to enable his team gain crucial first-innings lead against Bangalore in the previous match, went one better and came up with a 133-ball 101 (11x4, 2x6) as President’s XI finished the day at 254 for five in 84 overs.
President’s XI owed their current position in small measure to C Raghu, who stroked his way to a patient unbeaten 69 (160b, 11x4). Off-spinner Udit Patel bagged two, but they came at the expense of 84 runs.
At NRA, Bangalore Zone dominated the day’s proceedings, R Samarth leading the charge with an unbeaten 137 (255b, 18x4).
With all-rounder Anirudha Joshi undefeated on 56, Bangalore were comfortable placed at 263 for three after 83 overs at close on the first day when bat had a major say. Opener Bharath Chipli chipped in with 33.
Brief scores: At RSI: President’s XI: 254/5 in 84 overs (Karun Nair 38, Stuart Binny 101, C Raghu 69 batting; BN Bharath 2-43, Udit Patel 2-84) vs Combined XI.
At NRA: Bangalore Zone: 263/3 in 83 overs (R Samarth 137 batting, Anirudha Joshi 56 batting, Bharath Chipli 33) vs City XI.
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