Ranji Trophy: Karnataka Dominates Punjab With Ravichandran Smaran's Double Ton

Punjab skipper Shubman Gill endured a tough day as Karnataka posted a mammoth 475, built around Ravichandran Smaran's maiden first-class double ton that put the hosts firmly in the driver's seat in their Elite Group C Ranji Trophy match Friday. After a poor show with the bat on the opening day, it was another difficult day for Gill on the field as his bowlers failed to apply pressure on the opposition. Resuming on 199 for 4, overnight batter Smaran dominated proceedings with a superb 277-ball 203, almost single-handedly taking Punjab to the huge total.

Smaran's knock was the highlight of the day, with the next best score being Abhinav Manohar's 34. Smaran anchored the innings as other batters chipped in with useful contributions before Karnataka were bowled out in 122.1 overs.

In their second innings, Punjab were 24 for 2 in 13 overs, and were trailing by 396 runs, with Gill holding the fort at 7 not out from 36 balls, and Jassinder Singh at the crease on zero.

Haryana's Anuj Thakral shines with 6/31 against Bengal 

At Kalyani, Anuj Thakral's brilliant spell of 6/31 helped Haryana dismiss Bengal for 124. The hosts, playing their must-win game, thus conceded a crucial 33-run first innings lead.

Haryana, who were dismissed for 157 in their first innings, reached 158 for 2 at stumps on Day 2, taking a 191-run overall lead.

Himanshu Rana (46) and Nishant Sindhu (26) were at the crease at the close of play.

Ton-up Abhishek and Aryan put UP in control 

In Patna, Uttar Pradesh took control with a commanding 417 for 2 on Day 2, having gained a 169-run first-innings lead over Bihar.

Abhishek Goswami was the star, falling just short of a double ton with a blistering 198 off 206 balls, including 29 fours and three sixes.

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