SHILLONG:
Meghalaya set a challenging target for Manipur in their U-19 men’s Cooch Behar Trophy match, with the visitors needing 270 runs to win on the fourth and final day. The third day at the MCA Ground in Polo saw Manipur adding just eight runs to their overnight score of 259/8, eventually being bowled out for 267, 53 runs short of Meghalaya’s 320/10 in their first innings.
Angkit Tamang (3/58) played a crucial role in wrapping up Manipur’s innings by removing the last two tailenders. Following the conclusion of the bowling stint, Angkit contributed with the bat as well.
Despite Meghalaya facing some challenges in batting, they reached 46 without loss with notable contributions from Manthan Dey (28) and Shubham Rasaily (18). However, Manipur made a significant impact, taking six wickets in approximately 20 overs.
Angkit partnered with Kishlay Vishlux, and the duo showcased sensible batting, occupying the crease for nearly the entire second session and scoring 84 for the seventh wicket. Kishlay, who finished the first inning not out on 52, fell short of another half-century, bowled by Manipur’s successful bowler Joyhenba for 49.
Joyhenba, the left-arm spinner, had taken three wickets earlier and claimed Kishlay’s dismissal in his first over after being reintroduced into the attack. Angkit, playing a support role until then, took on the role of the senior batter, reaching his 50 before getting out, contributing significantly to Joyhenba’s five-wicket haul (5/33 in 16 overs).
Charm Marbaniang added 20 runs before being dismissed towards the end of the day, prompting the umpires to declare stumps. With the visitors set to tackle the chase on the fresh morning of the next day, Meghalaya aims to make early inroads before Manipur can settle.