Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Goa made a steady start in reply to Himachal Pradesh’s first innings total of 370, reaching 153 for three at the close of the second day’s play in their Col C K Nayudu Elite Under-23 four-day cricket encounter at the Goa Cricket Association Ground in Sanguem.
Goa trail by 217 runs with seven wickets remaining, keeping themselves in contention as the match progresses.
Resuming the day at 315 for six, Himachal Pradesh added 55 runs before being bowled out for 370 in 106 overs. Arjun Wadhwa, who had scored a century on the opening day, was dismissed for an impressive 142, while Naunihal Attlas contributed 46 runs.
Left-arm spinner Anuj Yadav was the standout performer for Goa, claiming five wickets for 116 runs. Deep Kasvankar supported him with two wickets, while Vinayak Kunte and Mohit Yadav picked up one wicket each.
Goa’s reply began on a difficult note as opener Shaantanu Nevagi was dismissed for just two runs. Sarthak Bhike and Afrid Rajakannawar then provided stability, adding 57 runs for the second wicket. Both scored 35 before falling in quick succession, leaving Goa struggling at 84 for three after being 73 for one.
Captain Aryan Narvekar and Dishank Misquin then took charge, producing a crucial unbeaten 69-run partnership for the fourth wicket to prevent further setbacks.
Narvekar remained unbeaten on 36, striking six boundaries, while Misquin was not out on 33, including three fours and a six. Their partnership lifted Goa to 153 for three in 62 overs at stumps.
Goa will look to build on the partnership and reduce the deficit when play resumes on the third day.
