Dhawan's century helps Delhi take first innings lead

A fine 135 by opener S Dhawan helped Delhi take a 56-run first innings lead over Orissa on the second day of their Vijay Merchant Trophy Under-16 pre-quarter final match at the East Calcutta Sports Council Ground in Calcutta on Tuesday.

In reply to Orissa's 231, Delhi made a circumspect start with openers PP Singh (11) and S Dhawan putting on 46 runs in 14.5 overs. PP Singh was the first to be dismissed bowled by B Mohanty. His replacement at the crease, Raman Chowdhury returned to the confines of the pavilion without opening his account. Raman was caught by A Patra off R Mohanty. Aditya Jain joined Dhawan to take the score to 74 when Jain was run out for 17.

H Mehta (71) and Dhawan then forged a 138-run fourth wicket stand in 42.3 overs. Mehta during a stay of 2-1/2 hours, faced 135 balls and hit 12 fours and two sixes. After ensuring the lead, Dhawan himself departed with the score board reading 267. Dhawan was at the middle for 17 minutes over five hours. He faced 249 balls and found the boundary ropes 20 times. A Nag (19) and A Bali (12) were unbeaten at stumps with Delhi 287 for six.

On the opening day, Orissa, opting to bat first, scored 231. Orissa were helped by skipper SP Priyadarshan (74) who shared a 53-run sixth wicket stand with Agasti (42). Then D Das (36) helped the score along with the help of the tailenders. Abhishek Sharma (3 for 72) and PP Singh (3 for 51) were the most successful bowlers.