Duleep Trophy Day 2: Malewar Retires Out After 203, Auqib Dar Shines with Hat-Trick

Day 2 of the Duleep Trophy quarterfinals delivered high drama and standout performances, with Central Zone’s Danish Malewar and North Zone pacer Auqib Nabi Dar stealing the limelight.

Malewar showcased sublime batting, scoring a commanding double century before retiring out, helping Central Zone declare their first innings at an imposing 532 for 4. His composed knock frustrated the bowlers and provided freedom for his teammates to build on the platform. Later in the day, Aditya Thakare and Harsh Dubey combined to dismantle half of the opposition’s batting order by stumps, putting Central Zone in a commanding position.

One notable disappointment for Central was left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who bowled 20 overs without picking up a wicket. The Indian international will look to make amends on Day 3.

Auqib Dar: North Zone’s Hat-Trick Hero

In a separate quarterfinal clash, North Zone dominated East Zone, thanks in large part to Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Dar. Dar claimed a sensational hat-trick to wrap up the tail, finishing with a five-wicket haul as East Zone was dismissed for 230 in 57 overs.

East Zone’s innings featured limited resistance, with Virat Singh scoring a half-century, while Riyan Parag and Kumar Kushagra could not convert starts into substantial contributions. North Zone pacers Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana struck early to dismantle the top order, paving the way for Dar’s late burst of brilliance.

By the close of Day 2, North Zone had gained a significant advantage, emphasizing the potency of their fast-bowling unit. With Malewar’s double century and Dar’s hat-trick dominating the day’s narratives, Day 2 of the Duleep Trophy will be remembered as a showcase of exceptional individual performances.