In an exhilarating display of batting, stylish left-handed opener Pratham Singh took center stage in the ongoing Duleep Trophy 2024 match between India A and India D. Stepping in as a replacement for Shubman Gill, Singh not only filled in admirably but delivered a match-defining performance, smashing a blistering century on day three.
Singh’s Century Stuns India D
After a lackluster first innings, where Singh failed to make an impact, he returned with determination and resilience in India A’s second innings. Partnering with middle-order batsman Tilak Varma, Pratham Singh put India A in a commanding position. His century was not just a display of solid technique but also of his attacking prowess, particularly in a memorable duel with India D pacer Vidhwath Kaverappa.
The moment of the match occurred during the 49th over of India A’s second innings. Kaverappa, brought into the attack by skipper Shreyas Iyer, was tasked with breaking the solid partnership between Singh and Varma. However, his hopes of turning the match were quickly dashed as Pratham Singh went into full attack mode.
The over began with a bang, as Singh smashed Kaverappa for a towering six over mid-wicket, showcasing his aggressive intent. After a few defensive deliveries, the left-hander delivered the final blows with two consecutive boundaries, bringing up his well-deserved hundred.
This innings not only helped Singh redeem himself after his first-innings failure but also solidified his place as a key performer in India A’s squad.
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India A in Command
Pratham Singh’s century was supported by important contributions from his teammates, particularly Mayank Agarwal and Tilak Varma. Agarwal, who had set the foundation with his solid knock on day two, was dismissed by Shreyas Iyer, but by then, India A had already taken control of the game.
By the end of day three, India A had reached 199 for the loss of only one wicket. Pratham Singh was unbeaten on 108, and Varma provided strong support at the other end, batting on 34*. Their partnership ensured that India A had already built a commanding 306-run lead with nine wickets still in hand.
With Singh and Varma’s partnership flourishing, India A looks poised to set a massive target for India D, putting them firmly in the driver’s seat for a win in this crucial Duleep Trophy encounter.
Pratham Singh: Shubman Gill’s Replacement Shines Bright
Pratham Singh’s century comes at a crucial time for him, as he was drafted into the playing XI to replace the prolific Shubman Gill. With Gill unavailable, Singh had big shoes to fill, and he did so with aplomb. His ability to dominate bowlers like Kaverappa, especially in high-pressure situations, highlights the depth of talent in Indian domestic cricket.
His partnership with Tilak Varma, another young and promising talent, has been one of the highlights of the match so far. Together, they ensured that India A not only bounced back after losing Agarwal but also took the game away from India D.
India A’s Strong Position
At the close of play, India A had firmly positioned themselves for victory. Their lead of over 300 runs is likely to be extended further on day four, with Singh and Varma well set at the crease. With a potent bowling attack at their disposal, India A will look to bowl out India D in the final innings and secure a comprehensive win.
Looking Ahead
India A’s dominance in this match has come largely due to the contributions of their top-order, particularly Pratham Singh’s sensational century. As the match progresses, all eyes will be on how long India A bats and the target they set for India D. For India D, it will take something extraordinary from their batsmen to save the match and avoid defeat.
This century could prove to be a defining moment in Pratham Singh’s career, marking his transition from a promising talent to a dependable match-winner. Fans and selectors alike will be keen to see how he builds on this performance in the coming rounds of the Duleep Trophy 2024.
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