Dharmani hits consective third century

Ludhiana: Pankaj Dharmani (101) slammed his third consective century in the fourth outing of this season as Punjab declared their first innings at 530 for seven 15 minutes after tea on the second day of the North Zone Ranji Trophy league tie at the Punjab Agriculture University stadium here today.

In reply, Delhi were 58 without loss at close of play with Devender Sharma on 25 and Ashu Dani on 29.

The overnight centurion Reetinder Sodhi (104) was sent back to the pavilion in the very first over of today when he was bowled by Robin Singh Junior at the overnight score of 276. Dinesh Mongia joined Dharmani and played steadly. Dharmani completed his century in style as he hit an excellent cover drive for four off Sandeep Angurala. He was out to Robin Singh off the very next ball. Dharmani played 200 balls during his stay of 268 minutes. His powerful hits crossed the boundary ropes 14 times and he also hit one six. So far this season he has scored 678 runs in four games at an average of 339.

Sanjay Kumar then joined Mongia and both played agressive cricket. Sanjay was in an attacking mood and scored 66 runs off 115 balls with the help of eight boundaries. The duo added 123 runs for the fifth wicket. Dinesh Mongia (92), who was playing responsibly missed his ton when he was caught behind by Dahiya off Harinder Chaudhary while trying to cut a delivery which was not too short.

After Mongia's departure, Harminder Jugnu (37*) and Sandeep Sharma scored quickly and contributed 40 runs from 46 balls before Sandeep was caught by Ashu Dani at the long on fence off Sandeep Angurala. Harinder Chaudhary was the most successful bowler taking three wickets for 151 runs. Robin Singh junior picked up two wickets for 65 runs.

Delhi started their run chase in style and finished with 58 runs in 16 overs without any loss by close. Dharmani dropped Devender Sharma at second slip at 6 off Sandeep Sharma.