Harnoor’s Heroics Anchor Punjab on Day 1 Against Kerala

Harnoor Singh Pannu (126 not out, 258 balls, 11 fours) demonstrated remarkable composure amidst a batting collapse to achieve his maiden First-Class century, ensuring Punjab remained steady on Day 1 against Kerala in the Ranji Trophy Group B match at the PCA New Cricket Stadium, Ground B, on Saturday.

In an era where aggressive batting is increasingly favored, Harnoor’s patient approach proved invaluable. With Punjab struggling at 152 for five, having lost four wickets for just 24 runs, he forged a vital 74-run partnership with Salil Arora for the sixth wicket, guiding Punjab to a respectable 240 for six at the close of play.

Earlier, Harnoor seemed eager, hitting a boundary off Nidheesh M.D. in the first over. However, with spin introduced early, he quickly adjusted his strategy, focusing on singles and working the gaps, aided by a spread-out field on the on side. His unwavering patience and perseverance marked the rest of his unbeaten innings.

Harnoor, alongside Prabhsimran Singh, employed late cuts against left-arm orthodox Ankit Sharma. Unfortunately, their opening partnership of 52 ended when Prabhsimran’s attempted paddle sweep off Baba Aparajith resulted in the ball rolling onto the stumps off his gloves.

Harnoor and Uday Saharan then prioritized building a solid foundation over run rate, crafting an 86-run partnership that spanned 217 balls across the lunch break. Saharan contributed a steady 37 from 105 balls, while Harnoor confidently reached a half-century in 111 balls with elegant drives through covers and points.

However, the approach was tested as Punjab’s middle order struggled against Kerala’s attack. After Saharan was bowled by Ankit’s turn, Punjab’s IPL players offered little resistance, contributing just 33 deliveries combined. Naman Dhir and Anmolpreet Singh were caught behind off Basil, and Ramandeep Singh’s attempt to hit Ankit over mid-on resulted in a miscue.

In the second session, Punjab managed just 52 runs in 24 overs, but Harnoor’s resilience stood firm. He continued defending astutely and scored his century with a cut off Ankit, taking 207 balls for the milestone.

The day could have shifted had Harnoor not been dropped at mid-off on 93 off Nidheesh.

Salil Arora supported Harnoor and hit the only six of the day against Aparajith, though he was eventually dismissed LBW while sweeping in the penultimate over.

Harnoor weathered the challenges, keeping Punjab’s hopes alive for a stronger total in the days to come.

Published on Oct 25, 2025