Ranji Trophy 2024: Chetan Bist’s unbeaten 304 puts Nagaland in complete control on Day 2

Nadiad, 14 November: Nagaland has taken a commanding position in their Ranji Trophy 2024 Plate Group match against Mizoram, largely due to a record unbeaten 304 from wicketkeeper-batsman Chetan Bist. At the close of play on Day 2, Nagaland declared their first innings at a colossal 736/7, leaving Mizoram reeling at 5/2 in response at the Gokulbhai Somabhai Patel Stadium, Nadiad.

Resuming their innings at 363/3 on the second morning, Nagaland looked to build on the foundation set on Day 1. Bist, who started the day unbeaten on 120, alongside captain Jonathan Rongsen (26*), played a marathon innings, displaying impeccable patience and skill throughout. He faced 423 balls in total, holding the innings together with a mix of solid defense and calculated aggression, reaching his first triple-century of the season. Bist’s heroic effort is a career-defining knock and is likely to go down as one of the highlights of the Ranji season.

Nischal Dega also made a substantial contribution with a fine 145 off 169 balls, setting the tone for Nagaland’s dominance early in the innings. Lower down the order, all-rounder Jagadeesha Suchith narrowly missed a century, scoring an aggressive 99 off 102 balls before being dismissed. His knock further ensured Nagaland’s dominance, piling on runs and wearing down the Mizoram bowling attack.

For Mizoram, spinner KC Cariappa was the only bowler to make a significant impact, picking up 4 wickets for 141 runs in his 44 overs. However, his efforts could do little to contain Nagaland’s onslaught.

Mizoram’s response with the bat was equally disappointing. They were put under immediate pressure by Nagaland’s bowlers, with Jagadeesha Suchith striking early, taking two wickets without conceding a run. By the end of the day, Mizoram were struggling at 5/2 after just nine overs, trailing by a mammoth 731 runs. Lalhriatrenga remained unbeaten on 2* off 25 balls, attempting to steady the innings as Mizoram faces an uphill battle to avoid an innings defeat.

With Mizoram in a dire situation, Nagaland is well on course to secure a comprehensive victory. Their bowlers, led by Suchith, will be looking to exploit the favorable conditions on Day 3 and push for an early finish. For Mizoram, the challenge will be to bat as long as possible to avoid the follow-on and salvage something from a match that is rapidly slipping away from them.

MT