Delhi tightens grip around Rajasthan, Kohliâ??s bangs maiden ton

Nov 06: Riding on Virat Kohli’s ton Delhi team amended their first innings collapse to extend their lead to 351 against Rajasthan with six more batsmen to go after the end of second day of the Ranji Trophy Super League Group A match here on Monday.

Birthday boy Virat Kohli came up with a strokeful 106 of 192 balls studded with 18 boundaries to score his maiden Ranji century and presented a perfect b’day gift to himself and his family on his birthday.

Kohli first provided a crucial 78-run stand with Aakash Chopra (32) after losing Shikhar Dhawan (14) and Puneet Bisht (0) in quick succession early on and later essayed a fine 92-run partnership with stand in captain Mithun Manhas to laid a solid foundation for the Delhi team.

Manhas (86) and Rajat Bhatia (65) were remained unbeaten at the end of day’s play with scoreboard reading 317 for four in 90.3 overs.

Delhi batsmen showed some grit and gumption in the second innings after getting out on a meagre total of 119 in the first innings. They capitalised on the opportunity provided by their bowlers who bundled out the visitors for mere 85 runs in their first innings.

Batsman’s not only brought Delhi back into the match but also tightened firm grip over the opponents. The lead surely provided them an upper hand against Rajasthan.

Rajasthan’s Pankaj Singh once again came to the fore as he sent back Dhawan and Bisht while Kohli was castled by Shailender Gehlot delivery, which got the better of his defence after completing his century.

Manhas and Bhatia will resume the innings on Tuesday in quest of their hundreds, after former remaining not out on 86 in 148 balls which included 10 fours while, latter made 65 of 93 balls hitting 12 boundaries thus far in his knock.