Ludhiana takes first-innings lead after bowling out Mansa for 128
Ludhiana ended the opening day at 162 for 7, holding a 34-run lead over Mansa, who were bowled out for 128 runs in the third league match of Group D of the Inter-District Seniors Cricket Tournament for the Katoch Shield Trophy. The match is being played at the GRD Academy ground on Hambran Road.
Winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Mansa managed only 128 runs in 31.5 overs. Key contributors included Randeep Singh (31), Som Nath Parocha (22), and Aaditya Balana (20).
Aradhya Shukla's probing spell sets up Ludhiana's bowling dominance
India U-19 and Ranji Trophy pacer Aradhya Shukla delivered a remarkable opening spell, finishing with figures of 4-2-8-0, maintaining an exceptional economy rate of 2. Although he did not take a wicket, his relentless accuracy choked the Mansa top order and built pressure that his teammates exploited effectively.
Gurjot Singh was the star with the ball, claiming 7 wickets for 31 runs, while Ravi Kumar supported with 3 for 39. Their combined effort ensured Mansa could not build any substantial partnerships.
Ludhiana's reply: Rajveer Soni and Nehal Wadhera anchor innings
In response, Ludhiana lost their first wicket at just 17 runs but recovered through a steady partnership between Rajveer Soni and Nehal Wadhera. Soni top-scored with a patient 48 off 112 balls, while Nehal contributed a brisk 45 off 59 deliveries. Sukhseahaj Singh Narang added 21 runs to the total.
At stumps, Ludhiana were 162 for 7 after 56 overs. For Mansa, Randeep Singh (2/35), Mohit Kumar (2/40), and Sharanpreet Singh (2/30) shared six wickets. Harry Dhaliwal was particularly economical, conceding just 11 runs in nine overs, including five maidens.
