Padikkal century keeps Karnataka in control

AN unbeaten century from Devdutt Padikkal (151 batting; 216b, 12x4, 6x6) and his 132-run stand with R Samarth for the second wicket enabled Karnataka to post 288/5 against Tamil Nadu on the opening day of the Ranji Trophy Elite 'C' group, sixth round match being played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium here on Friday.

- ASHOK VENUGOPAL

Opting to bat, Karnataka had a poor start, losing opener Mayank Agarawal cheaply. The Karnataka captain was deceived by the turn from R Sai Kishore to be castled. Padikkal's sixth first-class ton could not have come at the more appropriate time as his effort was the saving grace for the visitors as many experienced batters failed to adapt to the conditions. Samarth, who made 57, played the role of anchor and was a perfect foil to Padikkal.

The right-left combination frustrated Tamil Nadu bowlers with their stubborn effort.

Sai Kishore, who got the initial purchase, was not at his best after a while by his tall standards. He tried Sandeep Warrier, M Mohammed, Vijay Shankar and Pradosh Ranjan Paul in turns but could not break the partnership.