In a thrilling encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore, South Zone secured a place in the final of the Duleep Trophy 2023 after defeating North Zone by two wickets. Led by captain Hanuma Vihari, South Zone successfully chased down a target of 215 runs in the fourth innings, setting up a showdown with West Zone on July 12.
However, the match concluded amidst controversy as North Zone employed cunning tactics to try and secure a victory for themselves. With a lead of two runs in the first innings, Jayant Yadav’s team deliberately slowed down their bowling, hoping for the match to end in a draw.
One particular North Zone bowler took an astonishing four minutes and 43 seconds to complete the last three balls of an over. Despite the possibility of rain and bad light causing the game to be called off, South Zone managed to hold on. Sai Kishore, who remained unbeaten on 15 runs off 11 balls, including two sixes, played a crucial role.
He stepped up to the crease when South Zone was struggling at 191 for 6 in 32.1 overs. Despite losing the wickets of Washington Sundar and Vijaykumar Vyshak, Kishore maintained his composure during the tense moments of the match.
Mayank Agarwal on the other hand, was awarded the Player of the Match for his outstanding performances with the bat. He contributed 76 runs off 115 balls in the first innings and followed it up with a solid knock of 54 runs in the second innings.
Captain Hanuma Vihari also made a valuable contribution, scoring 43 runs off 42 balls to support South Zone in their successful run-chase.