Srinagar, Feb 16: Jammu and Kashmir strengthened their hold in the Ranji Trophy first semifinal as their bowlers bowled out Bengal for 328 in 97.1 overs on Day 2.
Building on another brilliant spell from Aquib Nabi, J&K established a massive 325-run lead, edging closer to a historic final appearance.
Bengal resumed with hope but struggled under relentless pressure. Sudip Gharami shone with a patient 146 off 246 balls, including 21 fours. Abhimanyu Easwaran contributed 49, Shahbaz Ahmed added 42, and Sumanta Gupta scored a brisk 39. The rest of the batting lineup failed to make significant contributions.
Aquib Nabi led the bowling effort with figures of 5 for 87 in 26 overs, striking crucial blows at key moments. Sunil Kumar supported well, taking 3 for 41 and keeping the innings tightly under control. The disciplined bowling attack denied Bengal any late momentum.
With the advantage firmly in their hands, Jammu and Kashmir are now poised to press on and secure a place in the Ranji Trophy final. (Agencies)
