Saurashtra, Bengal march into semis

Ongole, Feb. 24: Saurashtra booked their spot in the semifinals of the Ranji Trophy on the basis of the first innings after their quarterfinal tie against Andhra ended in a draw on the final day here on Monday.

Resuming at the overnight score of 375 for

9, the visitors were dismissed for 426 in 138 overs in the second innings, setting an improbable target of 710 runs for Andhra. After being bowled out for

136 in the first innings, Andhra finished at 149 for

4 in 51 overs in their second essay before play was called off. A strokeful half-century by Andhra captain K S Bharat (55, 69 balls, 6 fours, 1 six) was the bright spot in the host team’s second innings. The wicketkeeper-batsman, who is on the fringes of national selection and has been part of various India ‘A’ teams in the recent past, showed why he is rated highly, playing some delightful shots during his knock.

Bengal beat Odisha At Tangi, Bengal stormed into the Ranji Trophy semi-finals by virtue of their first innings lead over Odisha after only one session was possible on the final day which was interrupted by bad light on Monday.

Resuming on 361 for 7, Bengal lost their remaining three wickets for 12 runs inside six overs to set Odisha an improbable 456. —