Ranji Trophy: Ajinkya Rahane slams ton for Mumbai
What's the story
Senior Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane slammed a century on Day 1 of the Ranji Trophy season for Mumbai against Saurashtra. Rahane came in early on when Mumbai were reduced to 22/2. He remained unbeaten at stumps , firing an unbeaten 108 from 250 deliveries. He found an able company from Sarfaraz Khan, who smashed an unbeaten 121. Mumbai are 263/3 at stumps.
Context
Why does this story matter?
This was a much needed century for Rahane, who had managed just 136 runs in six innings in India's 1-2 defeat in the Test series in South Africa earlier this year. With Test series against Sri Lanka to be played from first week of March, this century will provide the confidence he needs. Rahane will want to retain his place in the Indian team.
Day 1
How did Day 1 pan out?
Mumbai lost skipper Prithvi Shaw (1) and Aakarshit Gomel (8) early on to be reduced to 22/2. They were soon reeling at 44/3 as Sachin Yadav was dismissed for 19. From there on, Rahane and Sarfaraz stood tall, sharing an unbeaten 219-run stand for the fourth wicket. Saurashtra bowlers had a tough day on the field as the two batters dominated the proceedings.
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Rahane slams his 36th FC ton
The 33-year-old Rahane hit 14 fours and two sixes in a 250-ball knock. He got to his century, having faced 212 balls. Rahane slammed his 36th First Class century, racing to 11,904 runs.
Innings
Mumbai will hope to build on
The 219-run stand between Rahane and Sarfaraz came from 448 deliveries. They took time and played as per merit. Mumbai will look to pace their innings well and get to a good total on Day 2. They have given themselves a solid platform to shine. Both Rahane and Sarfaraz will aim to convert their unbeaten tons to something more substantial.