Can Atharva Taide's Unbeaten Century Propel Vidarbha to Victory Against ROI?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Atharva Taide scored an unbeaten century.
- Yash Rathod contributed significantly with 91 runs.
- The pair added a crucial 184-run partnership.
- Vidarbha ended day one at 280/5.
- Pitch conditions seem favorable for batting.
Nagpur, Oct 1 (NationPress) Atharva Taide has made an impressive start to the Irani Cup, remaining not out with a century as he and Yash Rathod put together a formidable third-wicket partnership, leading Vidarbha to a total of 280/5 at the close of play on the first day against the Rest of India at the VCA Stadium in Jamtha on Wednesday.
Initially challenged by left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, who took two wickets in a single over by dismissing Dhruv Shorey and Danish Malewar, Vidarbha regained their composure thanks to Taide’s unbeaten 118 and Rathod’s 91. The pair constructed a vital 184-run partnership for the third wicket, lifting the Ranji Trophy champions from early setbacks to a strong position.
Taide, who was given a second chance during the morning session—first by a no-ball and then by a dropped catch—capitalized on these opportunities, reaching his century with a magnificent six over long-on. Rathod, displaying elegance and steadiness, fell just short of his century, dismissed by Suthar.
Late in the day, fast bowler Akash Deep claimed the wicket of Vidarbha’s captain Akshay Wadkar, leaving the match finely balanced. It was a remarkable day for left-handers in Nagpur, with both Taide and Rathod shining with the bat, while Suthar excelled with the ball.
With the pitch becoming more favorable under the afternoon sun, Vidarbha added 92 runs for the loss of two wickets in the final session, setting up an intriguing second day. The Rest of India will aim to regroup with the new ball, while Vidarbha will be keen for Taide to extend his innings and push their total beyond 350.
Brief Scores: Vidarbha 280/5 in 84 overs (Atharva Taide 118, Yash Rathod 91; Manav Suthar 3-64, Akash Deep 2-35) against Rest of India