Hanuma Vihari scripts a special record in Irani Cup
Team India middle-order batsman Hanuma Vihari scripted a special record in domestic cricket. The batsman made use of his stupendous form to slam his second successive ton in the ongoing Irani Cup match against Vidarbha. Vihari amassed an unbeaten 180 in the second innings, after scoring 114 in the first. With this, he became the first batsman to score three consecutive Irani Cup tons.
Vihari had scored 114 in the first innings in the ongoing Irani Cup for Rest of India. He has now become the first player to score a hat-trick of hundreds in this event. Earlier in 2018, the talented batsman had smashed 183 for Rest of India against Vidarbha. Notably, Ranji Trophy champions Vidarbha made it to the Irani Cup for the second successive year.
The 25-year-old became the first batsman since Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan, in 2011, to script a ton in both innings of the Irani Cup. His 114 helped Rest of India get to a decent total of 330. He then continued the momentum in the second innings and powered his side to 374/3d. He hit 19 fours and four sixes in his knock of 180*.
Vihari had made his Test debut for India in 2018 against England and hit a fifty in his first match (56). Since then he featured in three Tests. He played three matches against Australia and managed to get 20, 28, 8, 13 and 42. The twin centuries will help him boost his confidence. Vihari will next be seen in the IPL for Delhi Capitals.
Rest of India scored 330 in the first innings. Akshay Wakhare the was pick of the bowlers for Vidarbha with figures of 3/62. In reply, the 2018-19 Ranji champions posted 425 runs. Akshay Karnewar scored a sublime 102. ROI then got to 374/3, with skipper Ajinkya Rahane (87) playing a supporting hand. Vidarbha have been set a target of 280 runs.
