Ranji Trophy: Rain plays spoilsport as UP’s victory hopes fade against Odisha

Kanpur: Persistent drizzle at Green Park on Monday dashed Uttar Pradesh’s chances of forcing an outright win against Odisha in their Ranji Trophy Group A clash, as the third day’s play was abandoned shortly after lunch.

Resuming at 262 for 3, the hosts advanced to 380 for 6 before rain stopped play for good. Skipper Karan Sharma (121) and wicketkeeper Aaradhya Yadav (101 retired hurt) powered UP to a commanding position with a solid 194-run stand for the fourth wicket.

The day began under overcast skies and light rain turned heavier post-lunch. Umpires called for covers around 1:11 pm and play could not resume thereafter. Only 42 overs were possible on Day 3, with 48 overs lost due to rain.

With a 137-run first-innings lead, Uttar Pradesh will now have to weigh their options carefully on the final day. An early declaration could give them a slim window to bowl Odisha out, while a draw would still fetch them three points for having the first innings lead.

Earlier, Karan Sharma reached his century off 237 balls with 10 boundaries, anchoring the innings before being stumped off Badal. Aaradhya Yadav, despite battling cramps, brought up his ton in 196 balls with 12 fours and two sixes before retiring hurt.

After lunch, Prashant Veer was run out in a bizarre fashion, and soon after, Priyam Garg (31 off 36) was stumped while attempting an aggressive shot.

As drizzle intensified, the umpires called off play, leaving UP’s hopes of a full victory dependent on weather and bold tactics on the final day.

Brief Scores:

Odisha – 243 all out

Uttar Pradesh – 380/6 (Karan Sharma 121, Aaradhya Yadav 101* (retired hurt), Madhav Kaushik 67, Priyam Garg 31; Sambit Baral 3/52, Badal 1/91, Sumit Sharma 1/78)