Vadodara takes command with a huge 172-run lead against Karnataka

Vadodara, Nov 24 (UNI) Riding on a brilliant batting display by debutant Ketan Panchal (72), hosts Vadodara took a huge 172-run first innings lead against Karnataka to be in a commanding position on the second day of the four-day Ranji trophy Elite group 'A' match here today.

The visitors, who made yet another disastrous start in their second essay losing four of the top order bastmen for only 96 runs, would have been in a more precarious situation had not Deepak Coughule (53) and wicket-keeper V S Thilak Naidu (31) played stubbornly to steer Karnataka out of immediate trouble with an unbeaten 84-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

At the close of the day's play, the duo had helped Karnataka surpass the huge first innings deficit of 172 without any further loss as the scoreboard read 180 for four in 52 overs. While spinner Rajesh Pawar claimed the first three wickets - Robin Uthappa (34), skipper Rowland Barrington (3) and Bharat Chipli (32) giving away 59 runs, Rakesh Patel, who had a five wicket haul in the first innings, dismissed C Raghu (17) conceding 40 runs.

With two full days' play remaining, Karnataka virtually face a daunting task of turning the table in their favour.

Earlier, resuming at 128 for 4, Vadodara suffered an early jolt when skipper Jacob Martin was dismissed at 33 adding only five runs to his overnight score. Other overnight batsman - Panchal (72), with the able support of Yusuf Pathan (33) enabled Vadodara pile up 257 runs in reply to Karnataka's first innings score of 85.

Being unable to withstand the spin and pace attack, Karnataka which began their second essay shortly after lunch, crashed to 96 for four before Cougule and Naidu stemmed the collapse.

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