Ranji Trophy 2024/25: Madhav Kaushik's Century Leads UP vs Punjab

In a commanding display, Madhav Kaushik's unbeaten 128 runs propelled Uttar Pradesh to a solid lead against Punjab during Day 2 of their Ranji Trophy Group C match. After resuming at 8/0, UP reached 293 for 3 by the end of the day, establishing an 83-run advantage as they look to seize control of the match.

The day began with UP adding just 34 runs before their captain, Aryan Juyal, was dismissed for 16 by Gurnoor Brar, breaking the initial momentum. Kaushik, however, quickly steadied the ship alongside Priyam Garg (27), together adding 43 runs to the scoreboard before Garg fell to Brar, leaving the team at 85/2.

Kaushik then forged a formidable 120-run partnership with India international Nitish Rana, who scored 66 runs. This partnership marked the turning point, as both batters found their rhythm, with Kaushik registering his second First-Class century. Rana’s dismissal came from a leg-before wicket before the score surpassed the initial Punjab total.

Currently, Kaushik is accompanied by Rinku Singh, who is also in great form with an unbeaten 46. Having struck 17 boundaries in his 231-ball innings, Kaushik's performance is critical as UP seeks to build on their lead.

In the earlier innings, Punjab was bowled out for 210, with Shivam Mavi taking four wickets. The contest remains finely poised with UP firmly in the driver’s seat.

Brief Scores: Mullanpur: Punjab 210 (Pukhraj Mann 61, Sanvir Singh 50; Shivam Mavi 4/29) trails Uttar Pradesh 293/3 (Madhav Kaushik 128*, Nitish Rana 66, Rinku Singh 46*; Gurnoor Brar 2/66) by 83 runs.