Vijay's century propels TNCA to lead

Chennai, Sep 18 (UNI) A stroke-filled century by M Vijay (140) and a patient half century by N Einstein (84) helped hosts TNCA XI gain a 15-run first innings lead against Saurashtra at the end of second day in the All India Buchi Babu Invitation Cricket Tournament final here today.

Responding to Saurashtra's 357 for nine, the home-team riding on Vijay's 212-ball 140 (8x4, 5x6) and Einstein's supporting knock, finished their first innings at 372 for six in the allotted 90 overs.

The duo added 150 runs for the third wicket in 33 overs before Prasanna (26) and Gopinath (35 not out) ensured the lead for the home team.

With a slender 15-run lead, the contest is heading for a close finish as the second innings on the final day tomorrow was restricted to 45-overs a side.

Brief Scores: Saurashtra 357 for nine vs TNCA XI 372 for 6 in 90 overs (R Aravind 36, M Vijay 140, N Einstein 84, R Prasanna 26, K H Gopinath 35 not out, Ravindra Jadeja two for 140; Rakesh Dhruve two for 118).

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