Bains and Mann Anchor Himachal Pradesh to Resilient Draw Against Delhi

The pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, in an effort to maintain its condition, resembled the one used for the India versus West Indies Test earlier in October. This created a situation where Delhi had to settle for a draw against Himachal Pradesh in their first home game of the Ranji Trophy’s Elite Group-D on Tuesday.

The outcome became clear after Delhi couldn’t take any wickets during the second session of the fourth day. Subsequently, the on-field umpires, in agreement with the captains, decided to conclude the match shortly after the tea break.

Interestingly, by tea, Himachal appeared willing to continue the chase. With a target of 343 runs, they stood at 168 for two in 46 overs. Skipper Ankush Bains and Pukhraj Mann were not out at 81 and 76 respectively. However, as the day grew darker and more hazy, both teams consented to a draw at 3:15 p.m.

While Delhi secured three points for securing a first-innings lead, Ayush Badoni and his team might feel disappointed for not clinching an outright win.

Also, read: Punjab overcomes Kerala’s resistance to secure first-innings lead in draw.

On Tuesday morning, Delhi added 13 runs in nine balls to their overnight total of 196 for four before declaring. With Money Grewal taking early wickets, dismissing Sidhant Purohit LBW in the first over and Ankit Kalsi caught behind, Delhi seemed on track for victory.

Despite these early setbacks, Bains and Mann held their ground, putting together an unbroken partnership of 160 runs. Navdeep Saini even tried bowling bouncers post-lunch to change the tide, but the placid pitch ultimately prevailed.

Published on Oct 28, 2025