Ranji Trophy: Shardul Thakur, Tanush Kotian Rescue Mumbai Against Jammu And Kashmir

A resolute Shardul Thakur played the rescue act to perfection for the star-studded but misfiring Mumbai, as his second first-class hundred brought the Ranji Trophy defending champions back from the brink in their Elite Group A clash against Jammu and Kashmir on Friday. Having conceded a huge 86-run lead in the first innings, Mumbai were left tottering at 101/7 in the second innings when Thakur and Tanush Kotian put on a robust 173-run unbeaten stand for the eighth wicket to turn the tables on J&K.

Mumbai reached 274/7 at stumps on Day Two, ahead by 188 runs with Thakur batting on 113 (119 balls, 13 fours) and Kotian on 58 not out off 119 balls with six fours.

Thakur battled cramps on multiple occasions and made the most of a reprieve, offering yet another reminder of his gritty character. Meanwhile, the young Kotian once again showcased his credentials as a promising player at the highest level with another valuable knock.

Mumbai had squandered an ideal start after Rohit Sharma (28) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (26) put on 54 for the opening wicket at a brisk rate.

The Indian Test openers, pairing up for the first time in Ranji Trophy, looked to take on the Jammu and Kashmir bowlers and got some success too.

While Rohit hit a trademark six over deep square leg and lofted two more deliveries for a similar result, Jaiswal, who looked to come down the wicket, also played positively during his brief stay.

Jammu and Kashmir's athleticism on the field and persistence from their bowlers overshadowed some howlers from the umpires — Shreyas Iyer (17) was caught behind off Nazir but was not given out by the umpire S Ravi, while Ajinkya Rahane (16) had to be called back from the pavilion.

Rahane was caught behind by Kanhaiya Wadhawan off