Defending Champions Karnataka took a strong hold over Jammu and Kashmir by gaining massive 263-run first innings lead on the second day of the Elite Group A league of Ranji Trophy tie, even as a valiant 156 by opener Robin Uthappa, could not win him a berth in the World Cup Squad.
The second day’s play ended with visitors making 37 for one in the second innings, with Adil Reshi (23) and Aditya Pratap (04) remaining at the crease.
After bundling out J&K for 160 on the opening day, Karnataka declared its innings at 423 for 9 with less than 60 minutes of play left on the second day of the four-day match today.
Resuming at 123 for five, after being down 85 for 5 at one stage, hosts made an expected comeback with K M Gautham (80) and Uthappa (156) adding 177 for the sixth wicket.
Playing with big hopes finding a berth in the World Cup squad, Uthappa, who was sent down the order at number four, resumed at the overnight score of 37, went on an impressive fashion punishing the Kashmir bowlers. Before lunch he struck the century. He then went past 150 hitting 23 fours and a six.
Brief scores: Jammu and Kashmir: I innings 160 and 37/1 vs Karnataka I Innings: 423/9 dec (Robin Uthappa 156, C M Gautam 80, Shreyas Gopal 58, Mohammed Mudashir 4/99, Ram Dayal 3/65). (AGENCIES)
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