Harshit Rana Claims 4-44 as India Dismiss Australian Prime Minister's XI for 240
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Canberra, Dec 1 (NationPress) Fast-bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana achieved figures of 4-44 as India bowled out the Australian Prime Minister's XI for 240 runs in just 43.2 overs during a pink-ball warm-up match at Manuka Oval on Sunday.
Following a rain-affected first day of their two-day pink-ball tour match, India opted to bowl first in a shortened 50-overs-a-side game. Young batsman Sam Konstas excelled with a century off 90 balls, putting additional pressure on Australia's struggling batter Marnus Labuschagne, as well as debut opener Nathan McSweeney, who had a quiet first outing in Perth.
Rana made a significant impact by taking four wickets in just six deliveries, ensuring that PM's XI could not reach the 250-run mark. Opener Matthew Renshaw was dismissed early after nicking a delivery to second slip off Mohammed Siraj, contributing just five runs. He was quickly followed by Jayden Goodwin, who edged behind to the keeper off Akash Deep, leaving the PM XI struggling at 22/2 after 5.5 overs.
Subsequent rain reduced the match to a 46-over contest. However, Konstas showcased solid technique with his stroke play, particularly in his aggressive approach against the Indian bowlers, including an astonishing reverse ramp shot off Akash Deep.
In total, he scored 107 runs off 97 balls, featuring 14 fours and a six at a strike rate of 110.3, while forming a partnership of 109 runs with Jack Clayton (40). Yet, Rana turned the tide for India by dismissing Clayton, Ollie Davies, Jack Edwards, and Sam Harper, leaving the PM’s XI at 138/7.
Konstas found a capable partner in Hanno Jacobs, as they forged an eighth-wicket partnership worth 67 runs. After reaching his century, Konstas was eventually caught in the deep off Akash Deep’s bowling, while Jacobs was dismissed for 61 by Washington Sundar, concluding the PM’s XI innings.
Brief Scores: Prime Minister’s XI 240 in 43.2 overs (Sam Konstas 107, Hanno Jacobs 61; Harshit Rana 4-44) against India.
