Ricky Bhui Shines as India D's Lead Grows in Duleep Trophy Clash

Ricky Bhui was just 10 runs short of a second consecutive century, helping India D extend their lead to 311 against India B in the Duleep Trophy. Shreyas Iyer also contributed with a half-century. India D aims to secure a win by setting a challenging target for India B on Sunday.

Ricky Bhui was just 10 runs short of his second consecutive century as India D's lead grew to 311 runs against India B when stumps were drawn on the third day of the Duleep Trophy encounter here on Saturday.

Shreyas Iyer made a significant contribution with a purposeful half-century, scoring 50 runs off 40 balls. As the day ended, India D stood at 244 for 5 in their second innings, with Bhui unbeaten on 90 off 87 balls, featuring 10 boundaries and three sixes. Earlier, India B were bowled out for 282 in response to India D's first innings score of 349.

The day started with Washington Sundar at the crease for India B, but his knock of 87 runs was cut short as he ran out of partners. Spinner Saurabh Kumar excelled for India D, claiming 5 for 73, while Arshdeep Singh ended with three wickets. Despite an early setback, Iyer and Bhui's counterattack was pivotal, setting the stage for a possible India D victory if they can set a challenging target for India B in the remaining overs on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies.)