Masterful Centuries by Patidar and Rathod Propel Central Zone to Commanding Lead Against South on Day Two

On the second day of the Duleep Trophy final at the BCCI CoE Ground, centuries by Yash Rathod (137 not out, 188 balls, 11 fours, 1 six) and Rajat Patidar (101, 115 balls, 12 fours, 2 sixes) steered Central Zone to a commanding position over South Zone on Friday.

Rathod and Patidar dominated with a 167-run stand for the fourth wicket, helping Central end the day at 384 for five, securing a 235-run lead.

Vidarbha’s Rathod, who was the highest run-scorer of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season, effectively handled spinners Ankit Sharma and Ricky Bhui. He was quick to read the length and expertly found the gaps.

During the evening session, Rathod and Saransh Jain (47 not out) strengthened Central’s stance with an ongoing 118-run partnership.

Patidar continued his excellent form, marking his 15th First Class century. He showcased his skills against pacers Gurjapneet Singh, V. Koushik, and M.D. Nidheesh, with elegant straight drives. Against off-spinner Bhui, Patidar demonstrated a variety of strokes, including a notable hit over mid-wicket, sweeps, and a cut shot.

Patidar had a lucky moment at 44 when he was given out leg-before to Ankit but was saved as replays revealed an overstep.

Ultimately, Patidar was dismissed by a bouncer from Gurjapneet, caught by the wicketkeeper while attempting a hook.

Earlier, Koushik had given South some hope by dismissing opener Akshay Wadkar, bowling him with a ball that sharply came in from outside off-stump.

Danish Malewar (53, 120 balls, 5 fours), Wadkar’s partner, impressed with his resilience, particularly against the new ball, despite it being only his second season in senior cricket.

Published on September 12, 2025.