Matruja hits ton in Baroda's big total

With a lead of 228 runs on the first innings, Baroda were holding all the aces at stumps on the second day of their Vijay Merchant Trophy (under-16) match against Maharashtra at Pune on Saturday.

After dismissing the home team for 171 on Friday, Baroda replied with 399. Maharashtra in their second knock were five for no wicket at close of play.

Baroda's imposing total was built upon a 200 run first wicket partnership in 37.3 overs between KB Desai (45) and Yogesh Matruja. Valuable contributions were also made by skipper Shantrunjay Gaekwad (47), DK Dave (39) and Yusuf Pathan (76). Gaekwad and Dave added 67 runs for the fourth wicket while Pathan bolstered the late order. He faced only 72 balls, hitting nine fours and three sixes before being last out. But the star was Yogesh Matruja who hit 138 off just 121 balls, before being first out. He batted 161 minutes and hit 18 fours and four sixes. Maharashtra skipper Kiran Adhav was the most successful bowler with five for 92.