Raja Ali's century saves Railways

Raja Ali scored a fine unbeaten century on the final day to help Railways draw their Central Zone Ranji Trophy league match against Rajasthan at the KL Saini Ground, Jaipur on Saturday. Railways batted out the day scoring 325 for six from their 82.1 overs.

Railways began the fourth day of the match still trailing by 188 runs. Openers Sanjay Bangar (20) and TP Singh (12) added 26 runs for the first wicket. Thereafter they lost wickets at regular intervals giving Rajasthan a glimpse of an innings victory. At one time, Railways were tottering on 142 for five, before Raja Ali (124) and S Sahu (95) began the repair work. The due put on a match saving partnership of 183 for the sixth wicket. Sahu missed out on his century by five runs. His 127 ball innings had 13 hits to the fence and a six. Raja was unbeaten in his 187 ball innings which was laced with 15 boundaries.

Railways scored 271 in the first innings. In reply Rajasthan amassed 459 for nine, posting a lead of 188 runs. Railways bagged three points whereas Rajasthan collected five from the game.