CK Nayudu Trophy: Sujal 156, Bhardwaj 121 put Odisha in command; lead swells to 163

Sambalpur: Odisha seized control of their Col C K Nayudu Trophy clash against Haryana with a dominant batting display on Day 2 at the Veer Surendra Sai Stadium, here on Saturday. Riding on splendid centuries from Sujal K Singh and Shreyansh Bhardwaj, the hosts closed the day at 439/4 in 98 overs in their first innings, taking a commanding 163-run lead.

Resuming their innings at 52/0 after bowling Haryana out for 276, Odisha’s top order delivered a disciplined and impactful performance.

Sujal K Singh led the charge with a superb 156 off 163 balls, hitting 21 boundaries in a fluent knock that kept the scoreboard ticking. He combined solidity with intent, punishing loose deliveries and rotating the strike smartly to deny Haryana any sustained pressure.

Shreyansh Bhardwaj provided the perfect foil at the other end, crafting a patient 121 from 198 deliveries. His knock included 14 fours and was marked by composure and resilience, anchoring the innings through key phases. Together, the duo laid a strong foundation that tilted the game decisively in Odisha’s favour.

Om T Munde added further impetus with a brisk 67 off 95 balls, hitting 11 fours. His positive approach ensured the momentum remained firmly with the hosts as they steadily built their lead.

For Haryana, Param Chandila bowled a long spell, finishing with 2/100 from 20 overs. Aashirwad Sharma claimed 1/86 in 21 overs, while Samant Jakhar returned figures of 1/67 from his 15 overs. Despite their efforts, the Haryana attack struggled to contain Odisha’s well-set batters on a surface offering limited assistance.

Earlier, Haryana were bowled out for 276 in their first innings. Rohan Deshwal top-scored with 108 off 158 balls, including 15 fours and two sixes, while Vivek Kumar chipped in with a quick 55 off 56 deliveries. However, Odisha’s bowling unit had already ensured the visitors did not run away with the contest.

Asutosh Marndi was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 5/69 in 12 overs, while Ashutosh Chhuria supported well with 2/42 in 14 overs.