New Delhi, Jan 31 (Agency) Delhi’s middle-order strength ensured they ended Day 2 of their Ranji Trophy match against Railways at 334/7, but the failure of star batsman Virat Kohli was a key talking point as the team wrestled through a challenging day at the Feroz Shah Kotla ground here on Friday. After a tough start on Day 1 when they were 41/1, Delhi’s innings began to show signs of recovery, thanks in large part to Ayush Badoni’s blistering knock of 99 off 77 balls. Badoni’s aggressive stroke play, including 12 fours and 3 sixes, helped steady the innings, while Sumit Mathur, who was unbeaten on 78 off 189 balls, played the anchor role. Mathur’s patient approach saw him reach his half-century off 117 balls, forming a crucial partnership with Badoni. However, the early dismissal of Delhi’s top order once again raised concerns. Sanat Sangwan (30), Yash Dhull (32), and the much-anticipated Virat Kohli (6) all failed to convert their starts into substantial scores. Kohli’s dismissal was particularly disappointing, with the star batsman unable to impose himself after a promising beginning. The fall of key wickets saw Delhi at 230/5 at one stage, but a solid partnership between Mathur and Pranav Rajvanshi (39) ensured they crossed the 300-run mark.
Shivam Sharma (14) and Siddhant Sharma (15) were dismissed late in the day, leaving Delhi at 334/7 at stumps in reply to Railways first innings total of 241. Railways’ bowlers fought back well, with Sangwan leading the attack with figures of 2/46 from 20 overs. Kunal Yadav (2/82) and Rahul Sharma (1/69) also made key contributions, though they struggled to contain the run flow. Ayan Chaudhari (1/64) and Karn Sharma (1/53) picked up wickets, but Delhi’s middle order held strong. With Navdeep Saini and Money Grewal yet to bat, Delhi will be hoping to build on their total on Day 3. Despite the top-order setbacks, the match remains in a balanced state, with Delhi holding a slight advantage heading into the next day.