Ranji Trophy 2022-23, BEN vs SAUR, Day 2: Saurashtra put one hand on silverware 

Arpit Vasavada scored 81* runs (Source: Twitter/@xtratimeindia)

Saurashtra possibly have scored a clincher on Day 2 of their final bout versus Bengal as they are not much far away from capturing the 2022-23 Ranji Trophy.

Saurashtra's middle-order offers no reprieve to Bengal 

Starting the day at 81/2, Saurashtra were found in a tough spot as both of their overnight batters Harvik Desai and Chetan Sakariya could not get going, leaving the visiting side at 109/4.

After Bengal had opened a comeback window for themselves, it was soon shut by Saurashtra's middle-order batters with Sheldon Jackson and Arpit Vasavada initially securing the lead, and then Chirag Jani furthering the gap between the two teams.

The troika of Jackson, Vasavada and Jani smashed 50-plus scores as the hosts seemed to have thrown in the towel.

After Porel got Jackson's number, sending the veteran packing after his fifty, Bengal were again on the hunt for wickets. However, it could not be made possible as Vasavada and Jani's undefeated 113-run stand ensured a smooth passage of play for Saurashtra.

At the end of the day's play, Saurashtra are at 317/5, leading by 143 runs.

Brief Scores: 

Bengal - 174-10 (54.1)

Shahbaz Ahmed 69 (112), Abhishek Porel 50 (98); Chetan Sakariya 3-33 (13), Jaydev Unadkat 3-44 (13.1)

Saurashtra - 317/5 (87)

Arpit Vasavada 81* (155), Sheldon Jackson 59 (105); Ishan Porel 2-72 (18), Mukesh Kumar 2-83 (27)

Saurashtra lead by 143 runs 

---

ALSO READ

IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: 3rd session Review and talking points

---