In a spectacular display of power-hitting, Baroda posted a formidable total of 417 for 4 against Hyderabad in their Elite Group B Vijay Hazare Trophy encounter at Rajkot on Wednesday. The innings was masterfully anchored by skipper Krunal Pandya, who remained unbeaten on a scintillating century.
Openers Lay a Formidable Foundation
The foundation for the colossal score was built by the opening pair of Nitya Pandya and Amit Pasi. The duo put Hyderabad's bowling attack to the sword, stitching together a mammoth partnership of 230 runs for the first wicket. Nitya Pandya played the anchor role to perfection, scoring a composed 122 runs from 110 deliveries. At the other end, Amit Pasi was the aggressor, racing to a brilliant 127 off just 93 balls, leaving the opposition bowlers searching for answers.
Captain Krunal Pandya Seals the Deal
After the openers were dismissed, Baroda faced a minor stumble with two quick wickets. However, captain Krunal Pandya walked in and immediately took charge of the situation. The Royal Challengers Bangalore all-rounder played a captain's knock, scoring an unbeaten 109 from a mere 63 balls. He expertly managed the middle and death overs, ensuring the scoring rate never dipped.
Pandya found able support in Bhanu Pania, who contributed a quickfire 42 not out from 27 deliveries. The pair added an unbroken 115-run stand for the fifth wicket, providing a devastating finish to the innings and pushing Baroda past the 400-run mark.
Hyderabad Bowlers Bear the Brunt
The Hyderabad bowling unit had a day to forget as the Baroda batters dominated proceedings. Bowlers Rakshann and Nitin Yadav proved particularly expensive, conceding 75 and 77 runs respectively from their allotted overs. The massive total of 417 for 4 sets a daunting target for Hyderabad, who will require a record chase to secure a victory in this Vijay Hazare Trophy clash.
