In this year’s Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament, teams have only 90 overs to bat in their first innings — a format that blends the characteristics of First Class and List A. Under those constraints, even Anustup Mazumdar’s authoritative century and Sumanta Gupta’s fighting 98 could not prevent Bengal from conceding a 34-run lead to Haryana on Tuesday at the AM Jain College in Chennai.
Mazumdar compiled a near-flawless 126 off 167 balls, holding the innings together after early trouble. He rebuilt with a 70-run stand alongside Sudip Gharami (45 off 73 balls), who was trapped leg-before by Sumit Kumar just before lunch, and then added 102 with Abishek Porel.
The wicketkeeper-batter showcased some crisp cuts off spinners before falling on 39, edging pacer Ajay Singh while chasing a wide delivery. Mazumdar brought up his century off 134 balls but fell while trying to accelerate, miscuing a pull off spinner Aman Kumar to fine leg.
With Bengal still 120 runs adrift of Haryana’s 415, Sumanta took charge. He pierced through the gaps around the ground, went over the infield at times, and kept the scoreboard moving in a proactive knock that included seven fours. However, he fell short of his hundred by two runs while attempting a sharp double. Bengal eventually folded for 381, falling just short of parity.
Led by Sumit Kumar’s five for 32, Haryana bowlers will be satisfied with their disciplined effort in hot and humid conditions. They maintained tight lines, denied easy boundaries, and were backed by sharp ground fielding that ultimately made the difference between the two sides.