Shantanu’s blazing 210 powers UP to 364/3

Lucknow: Shantanu Singh hammered a quickfire 210 off just 119 balls as Uttar Pradesh raced to 364 for three in 40 overs on the first day of their Vijay Merchant Trophy clash against Odisha at Captain Roop Singh Stadium in Gwalior on Saturday. Electing to bat first, Uttar Pradesh got off to an explosive start as Shantanu forged an 84-run opening stand with Sarthak Chechi (36) in just 12.2 overs. Chechi's innings ended when he was caught by Ashim Barad off Soumya Singh. Odisha struck again soon after, running out Shlok Sharma (16) to leave Uttar Pradesh two down for 143. However, Shantanu steadied the innings with a blistering 176-run partnership alongside skipper Yuvraj (78*). His fireworks came to an end in the 35th over, but not before he smashed 20 boundaries and 10 towering sixes. At stumps, Yuvraj remained unbeaten on 78, accompanied by Mohd Anas (15*), as Uttar Pradesh ended the day in a commanding position.