CHENNAI: Buoyed by an innings win against Vidarbha in the previous round, a confident Maharashtra take on Assam in a Group B Ranji Trophy match at IIT-Chemplast grounds from Monday.
Last year’s semifinalists Assam, who have just eight points from six games, cannot be taken lightly as many players have been playing in the TNCA league and know local conditions.
“There are no special plans as such. We played against them last year and did well. They have a decent batting line-up and we would look for a win and play good cricket,” said Assam captain KB Arun Karthik, a former Tamil Nadu player himself.
A win against Maharashtra can help Assam stay in the hunt. “The race is wide open for the third spot. We are not putting us under pressure keeping the points in mind. We want to play quality cricket and see how things go,” said the batsman.
Maharashtra will bank on Ankit Bawne. The batsman plays for Jolly Rovers in the TNCA league and IIT is his home ground. He comes into the game with a ton against Vidarbha. His team is third in the group with 14 points from five matches.
Familiarity aside, a lot will depend on the pitch. The IIT turf generally aides batsmen and takes spin as the game goes on. But this time, there is a bit of grass on the surface.“It feels good to be playing at your ‘home’ ground. I had a good time playing for Jolly Rovers. I know the conditions. Having said that, I have to apply myself again and not think about previous games. The key is to apply and build partnerships and not take anything for granted. I wish Kedar Jadhav too chips in with the bat,” said Bawne.
“We will take a call whether to bat or bowl after having a final look at the wicket. At this level we have to be prepared for anything. We have Arup Das and Krishna Das who can handle the new ball. We have all-rounder Syed Mohamed, who knows the local conditions, and off-spinner Swarupam Purkayastha,” explained Arun Karthik.
Facebook comments