Sikkim encountered formidable challenges on the second day of the ongoing Ranji Trophy match against Goa, which is taking place at Sikkim Cricket Ground, Rangpo.
After a strong batting display by the visiting team, Sikkim found themselves in a precarious position, ending the day at a score of 50 for 3, which left them facing a daunting requirement of 209 runs to avoid an inning defeat.
In the context of the match, Goa declared their first inning at 367 for 4, in response to Sikkim’s meagre initial total of just 108 runs.
Goa’s bowler, Arjun Tendulkar, made an early impact, securing two wickets in his second over. His key dismissals included Sikkim’s openers, Pankaj Rawat and Nilesh Lamichaney, who fell victim to his bowling.
The situation spiralled for Sikkim when their captain, Darshan Misal, intensified the crisis by dismissing the batsman, Anwesh Sharma. This unfortunate turn of events left Sikkim staggering at a precarious score of 26 for 3.
Despite an unfavourable start, there were glimpses of resilience within the team. The duo of Parth P. and Arun Chettri formed an unbeaten partnership amounting to 24 runs. Their efforts took Sikkim’s score to 50 for 3 at the close of play for the day.
Earlier in the day, Pankaj Rawat executed a precise direct hit that led to the crucial wicket of Suyash Prabhudessai, a player who represents the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL), further highlighting his contribution to the team’s defence.
As the day progressed, Rohan Kadam, another important batsman, also succumbed to the pressure and departed. This early loss led Sikkim’s bowlers to face an arduous task, requiring them to persevere for 53 overs before finally achieving their next breakthrough.
However, it was evident that the challenge was formidable, given that KV Siddharth and Manthan Khutkar forged a devastating 236-run partnership for the third wicket. Siddharth anchored the innings with an impressive score of 130 not out, while Khutkar supported him strongly with an equally commendable 104 runs.
Moreover, Goa’s openers Suyash Prabhudessai and Rohan Kadam scored 58 and 54 runs, respectively, setting a solid foundation for the team’s innings.
Sikkim’s bowlers, including Lee Yong Lepcha, Parth P., and Ankur, each managed to claim one wicket in this innings.
