Fri Sep 13 05:48:04 UTC 2024: ## Mulani Rescues India A from Collapse in Duleep Trophy
**Anantapur:** A valiant knock of 88 runs by Shams Mulani steered India A to a respectable 288/8 on the first day of their Duleep Trophy clash against India D in Anantapur. India A’s top order crumbled against the potent seam bowling attack of India D, leaving the team in a precarious position at 93/5.
Vidwath Kaverappa, who previously played for India A in the first round, wreaked havoc with the new ball, picking up early wickets of Mayank Agarwal and Pratham Singh. Riyan Parag, batting at number four, provided a brief burst of aggression with a 29-ball 37, but his dismissal left India A struggling.
However, Mulani, who was a key figure in the previous game as well, held the innings together with a patient and determined innings. He shared a crucial 91-run partnership for the seventh wicket with Tanush Kotian (53), who played aggressively, as India D seemed to struggle for answers against the duo.
Despite late wickets by Saurabh Kumar and Arshdeep Singh, India A managed to end the day with a fighting total, largely thanks to Mulani’s crucial knock.
The match is evenly poised at the end of Day 1, with India A needing to build on their strong finish and build a substantial lead on day 2. The Duleep Trophy continues to be a platform for emerging talents, and Mulani’s performance has once again underlined his potential for the future.
First Piper 