Improved Assam put up a fight against Tamil Nadu on Day 2

THERE was a time when Assam relied heavily on outstation players to put up a good fight against strong teams. But better exposure and the setting up of academies by the BCCI in the North East zone have resulted in the growth of homegrown players who now have the uncanny ability to fight.

- ASHOK VENUGOPAL

The facet was seen on Thursday as Assam top order fought well to post 176 for 3 in 68 overs against Tamil Nadu in their first essay on the second day of the Ranji Trophy Elite Group D match played at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati.

Riding on Rishav Das's 54 and skipper Denish Das' effort (54 batting), the hosts were in a comfortable position when bails were drawn. Assam trail by 162 runs. Earlier, Tamil Nadu were all out for 338. Assam had a disastrous start losing opener Parvej Musaraf cheaply. Then Rishav Das along with Subham Mandal did a mini rescue act.