Gangta’s ton puts HP in command

Middle-order batsman Nikhil Gangta scored an unbeaten century to hand Himachal Pradesh the crucial first innings lead over Jammu and Kashmir on the second day of their Group C Ranji Trophy cricket match, here on Friday.

<g data-gr-id="14">Gangta</g> made a <g data-gr-id="15">strokeful</g> unbeaten 111 off 158 balls with the help of 12 boundaries and five hits over the fence to help Himachal Pradesh post 300 for five in their first innings at stumps on the second day in reply to Jammu and Kashmir’s 293.

Besides <g data-gr-id="11">Gangta</g>, Robin Bist also chipped in with a handy contribution of 66 that came off 137 balls and was <g data-gr-id="12">studdes</g> with seven fours, while wicket-keeper Ankur Bains made 37 up the order. At the close of play, Rishi Dhawan was giving <g data-gr-id="13">Gangta</g> company at the crease with a run-a-ball 40.

For Jammu and Kashmir, pacer Ram Dayal (2/63) and skipper Parvez Rasool (2/76) picked up two wickets apiece.