Vijay Merchant Trophy: Mrutyunjaya shines with four-for as Odisha keep Bihar in check on Day 1

Gwalior: Mrutyunjaya Das produced a superb bowling performance to put Odisha in control against Bihar on the opening day of their Vijay Merchant Trophy Under-16 multi-day match at the Scindia School Cricket Ground here on Friday.

After winning the toss and opting to field, Odisha bowlers made good use of the conditions to restrict Bihar to 217 for 6 in 91.4 overs at stumps on Day 1. Mrutyunjaya was the standout performer, finishing with impressive figures of 4 for 43 from 28 overs, including as many as 11 maidens, as he consistently troubled the Bihar batters with accuracy and movement.

Also read: Odisha secure first-innings lead as clash with Bihar ends in draw

Bihar’s innings was anchored by Abhinav Sinha, who top-scored with a patient 62 off 164 balls, striking seven boundaries. He received support from Yash, who added a gritty 44 from 124 deliveries, including five fours and a six, as the duo helped Bihar recover from early pressure and post a competitive total.

Apart from Mrutyunjaya, Himnish Sahu also made a valuable contribution with the ball for Odisha, picking up two wickets for 33 runs in 11.4 overs to keep the scoring rate in check.