How Did Ayush Badoni’s Double Ton Propel North Zone to Duleep Trophy Semis?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ayush Badoni scored his second double century.
- North Zone secured a spot in the semi-finals.
- Match ended in a draw with a lead of 833 runs.
- Ankit Kumar also made a significant contribution with 198 runs.
- Upcoming semi-final will be against South Zone.
Bengaluru, Aug 31 (NationPress) - In an impressive display of skill, Delhi all-rounder Ayush Badoni achieved his second double century in first-class cricket, propelling North Zone into the semi-finals of the Duleep Trophy by securing a first-innings lead over East Zone during the quarter-final match at the BCCI COE Ground 1 on Sunday.
Continuing from a solid position of 388/2 in 90 overs, North Zone accumulated a formidable total of 658/4 in 146.2 overs, establishing a commanding lead of 833 runs. With the outcome leaning towards a draw, the umpires decided to conclude the match, leading both teams to shake hands.
This result sets up a semi-final clash between North Zone and South Zone, scheduled to commence on September 4. Not only did Badoni score an impressive 204 not out, featuring 13 fours and three sixes, but captain Ankit Kumar also contributed significantly with a score of 198 off 321 balls, including 19 fours and a six.
Despite East Zone deploying Utkarsh Singh and Manishi from both ends, North Zone continued their run-making momentum, with Ankit surpassing his previous highest first-class score and inching closer to his maiden double-century, while Badoni maintained an aggressive batting style.
However, Ankit faced disappointment, falling just two runs short of a double hundred when he miscued a pull shot off Mukhtar Hussain and was caught at mid-on. Badoni persevered, reaching his century in 123 balls and even achieving 150 by lunch.
Despite Nishant Sindhu eventually getting out to long-on off Utkarsh, Badoni continued to hit boundaries as North Zone's lead soared past 800. Eventually, he achieved his maiden double hundred effortlessly, and with a commanding lead of 833 runs, the match was declared a draw, confirming North Zone's progression to the semi-finals.
Brief Scores: North Zone 405 and 658/4 in 146.2 overs (Ayush Badoni 204 not out, Ankit Kumar 198; Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal 1-77, Riyan Parag 1-78) drew with East Zone 230 in 56.1 overs (Virat Singh 69; Auqib Nabi 5-28)