Ketian Top 100 helps domestic giants lock in 15th place iran cupthe first time in 27 years
Lucknow: Tanush Kotian He comes across as a soft-spoken person who always maintains a calm demeanor. But once he steps onto the court, his desire to succeed is unparalleled.
The knock came to Mumbai’s rescue yet again on Saturday as his century played a crucial role in helping Mumbai win their 15th Iran Cup title after taking a first-innings lead over their opponents. rest of india at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium.
Kotien scored an unbeaten 114 off 150 balls, which included 10 fours and one six, to record his second first-class century. The 25-year-old from Vikroli, a central suburb of Mumbai, shared a ninth-wicket haul of 158 with Mohit Avasthi (51*, 93b; 4×4, 1×6), the highest score at that position in the history of the tournament.
Interestingly, Mumbai last won the Iran Cup on the same day – 5-27 years ago in October, in the 1997-98 season opener, when they defeated RoI by 54 points. Since then, they have been on the losing side eight times.
Mumbai started the fifth day with a score of 156/6, leading by 274 runs. A good start is crucial if they are to defeat RoI, who have enough firepower to chase down a target of around 300 men. Bureau Double Centurion Sarfaraz Khan (17) Leg front then get Shardul Thakur Stumped, Mumbai’s odds dropped to 171/8.
Suffice it to say, the Mumbai dressing room may have been tense at this point. But as the Kotian-Avasthi partnership flourished, they relaxed and applauded every run. RoI committed sloppy defending and lost Kotian three times on 31, 50 and 53.
captain mumbai Ajinkya Lahani Rahane was all praises for Kottian: “He is a special talent and it is only a matter of time before he plays for India. He is a team player and he is a very hard worker.”
Recently, Kottian was asked about his chances of making it to the Indian team, but his only focus remains on the game. “Yes, a lot of people are talking about it, but I don’t think too much about playing for India. I hope one day I can play, but when I’m on the field, I always focus on what I can do for the team. Do what you do best – whether it’s bowling or batting.
Last year, Kotian was named ranji trophy Player of the tournament with 502 runs and 29 wickets. So how did he ultimately save his team?
“I know my game very well, so I back myself to score runs (or take wickets).”
mumbai cricket association Chairman Ajinkya Naik said: “Mumbai showed an outstanding example of grit and determination. The boys upheld the tradition of playing Kadus cricket.”
When Mumbai started the third day with just four bowlers, many feared the worst as Shardul Thakur was unwell. However, Mumbai’s Khadoos stood out for their attitude, which took them over the line.
Brief score: Mumbai: 537 all out, declared 329/8 in 78 overs (Tanush Kotian 114 not out, Mohit Avasthi 51 not out, Prithvi Shaw 76; Saransh Jain 6/121) Level with Rest of India: 416 all out
