MRC ‘A’ claim maiden TNCA 1st div title

Chennai: Mylapore Recreation Club ‘A’ were the underdogs heading into the TNCA first division final against the formidable

Vijay CC

, but the R Ashwin-led side showed great character to win their maiden title at the MA Chidambaram Stadium here on Friday. Having notched up 497-6 in their quota of 90 overs, MRC ‘A’ bowled out their opponents 366 to be crowned champions on the basis of the 1st innings lead.MRC ‘A’ rode top contributions from opener NS Chaturved (132), Rishi Dhawan (116) and Harsh Dubey (116) to post a tall total. In pursuit of 498 from 90 overs, Vijay CC needed a strong start.

Pradosh

Ranjan Paul (126, 14x4, 1x6) and J

Kousik

(65, 9x4) revived Vijay CC’s innings with their 144-run fourth wicket stand in 29.1 overs. The partnership was broken by left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey (4-77). Once Kousik and Pradosh departed, M Shahrukh Khan (92, 7x4, 3x6) kept Vijay CC in the match with his 76-ball innings. Once Shahrukh was dismissed, the chase for Vijay CC pretty much ended.Brief scores: MRC ‘A’ 497-6 in 90 overs (NS Chaturved 132, Rishi Dhawan 116, Harsh Dubey 116; Rahil Shah three for 95). Vijay CC 366 in 69.4 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 126, J Kousik 65, M Shahrukh Khan 92; Harsh Dubey 4-77, Rishi Dhawan 3-80). Match drawn, MRC ‘A’ won on 1st innings lead.