Cooch Behar Trophy U19: Priyanshu Mohanty’s seven-wicket haul puts Odisha in command against Himachal Pradesh

Balangir: Priyanshu Mohanty produced a spell to remember as Odisha tightened their grip on the opening day of the Cooch Behar Trophy Under 19 multi-day match against Himachal Pradesh at the Gandhi Stadium here on Tuesday.

After Himachal Pradesh won the toss and elected to bat, Odisha’s bowlers, led by Priyanshu Mohanty, delivered a disciplined performance to dismiss the visitors for 181 in 72.3 overs. Mohanty was the standout performer, claiming seven wickets while conceding just 60 runs from his 27.3 overs, including two maidens, to dismantle the Himachal batting line up. Sambit K Beja chipped in with a tidy spell as well, returning figures of one for 18 from eight overs.

For Himachal Pradesh, Aditya S Kataria top scored with a patient 57 off 84 balls, striking five boundaries, while Arpit Singh added 41 from 99 deliveries. However, wickets at regular intervals prevented the visitors from building substantial partnerships.

In reply, Odisha began cautiously and reached 44 without loss at stumps after 15 overs. Openers Sambit K Beja and Abhiroop Das ensured a steady start, with Beja unbeaten on 25 off 39 balls, including three fours, while Das remained not out on 18 from 51 deliveries.

At the close of play on Day 1, Odisha trail by 137 runs with all ten wickets in hand, setting the stage for an intriguing second day as the hosts look to build on a solid platform after Priyanshu Mohanty’s brilliant bowling effort.