North Zone in command after day two in Duleep trophy final

Kolkata, Nov 13 (UNI) North Zone took firm control of the Duleep Trophy final finishing day two on a commanding 321 for two against Sri Lanka A thanks to a 216-run second wicket partnership between Akash Chopra (135) and R S Ricky (122) here today.

On day one Sri Lanka A were bowled out for 296 and in reply North Zone were 51 for no loss. Beginning the second day, Gautam Gambhir was the man out early with the scoreboard unchanged, but after that it was North all the way.

North Zone not only took a vital first innings lead, but also set the tone of the match that now heads for a decider, unless either of the teams play it dramatically defensive.

Akash Chopra played a brilliant innings of 135 not out that was studded with 18 boundaries and was an example of measured aggression and one of class and determination though Sri Lanka helped the cause with some wayward bowling.

In company was newcomer R S Ricky whose 122 was matched with 14 boundaries and one six. Ricky was taken by Ishara Amerasinghe, the only Sri Lanka bowler who bowled with some verve and pace today.

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