R Smaran’s rescue act helps Rest of India recover against J&K in Irani Cup

Smaran Ravichandran On a gripping opening day of the Irani Cup at Srinagar’s Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, honours were shared between Rest of India and Ranji Trophy champions Jammu & Kashmir, with 12 wickets falling on a seam-friendly surface. Karnataka’s rising star Ravichandran Smaran once again underlined his batting promise with a rescue act. With Rest of India reeling at 155 for seven after being sent in to bat, the 23-year-old left-hander produced a composed 68 off 83 balls, with eight fours and a six, to steer his side to a respectable 237 in 68.1 overs. Batting at No. 6, Smaran found valuable support from Jharkhand opener Shikhar Mohan, who struck a fluent 60 off 118 balls, including nine fours and a six. Their efforts ensured Rest of India recovered from a position of serious trouble against an inspired J&K pace attack. In the absence of spearhead Auqib Nabi, J&K’s seamers Sunil Kumar (3-26) and Lone Nasir Muzaffar (3-59) shared six wickets, while Umar Nazir marked his return after nearly a year out with injury with figures of 2-65. Their disciplined effort kept the visitors under pressure throughout the day. J&K then lost two early wickets in their reply to finish on 21 for two after seven overs. Brief scores: Rest of India (1st innings) 237 in 68.1 overs (Ravichandran Smaran 68, Shikhar Mohan 60; Sunil Kumar 3/36, Lone Nasir Muzaffar 3/59); Jammu & Kashmir 21/2 in 7 overs.