Thu Sep 12 18:57:20 UTC 2024: ## Mulani Leads India A to Respectable Score in Duleep Trophy

**Anantapur, India:** Shams Mulani’s unbeaten 88 runs led India A to a respectable 288/8 at stumps on the first day of their second-round Duleep Trophy match against India D in Anantapur on Thursday.

Mulani, who found crucial support from Tanush Kotian (42), helped salvage India A from a precarious 144/6. The duo put on a crucial 91-run stand for the seventh wicket, before Mulani and Khaleel Ahmed (21*) added another 34 runs for the eighth wicket.

Mulani’s innings was a display of calculated aggression, with three boundaries through point region off Arshdeep Singh and Vidwath Kaverappa, as well as a powerful hook shot over the fine leg fence off Arshdeep. He also showed his dominance against the spinners, clearing mid-wicket for a six off Saransh Jain and reaching his half-century in 75 deliveries.

Earlier, India A’s top order struggled against the pace attack, with Mayank Agarwal (4) and Pratham Singh (12) falling early. Riyan Parag (37) offered some resistance but eventually fell to Arshdeep Singh.

However, Kumar Kushagra (36) and Tilak Varma (18) built a 51-run partnership before both fell to Arshdeep Singh, leaving India A reeling at 93/5.

Mulani’s resilience and Kotian’s valuable contribution ensured India A ended the day on a positive note, setting up an exciting contest for the remaining days.

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