India C came up with a surprising call by sending RCB fast bowler Vijaykumar Vyshak to open the batting on day four of their Duleep Trophy 2024 fixture against India A.
Chasing 350 in Anantapur, India C made a rejig to the opening pair. Sai Sudharshan, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s opening partner in the first innings, didn’t come out to bat. Instead, Vyshak partnered with Gaikwad to face the new ball.
It can be argued whether India C could have promoted No.3 batter Rajat Patidar had there been an injury concern to Sai Sudharsan. What prompted them to opt for a No.10 instead is unclear.
It’s worth noting that Vyshak has some pedigree as a batter, with a first-class ton and a fifty to his name. However, in his 11 IPL matches so far, he has played as a bowler without any significant batting contributions.
Surprise!
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) September 22, 2024
Vijaykumar Vyshak has come out to open the batting with Ruturaj Gaikwad!#DuleepTrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank
Follow the match ▶️: https://t.co/QkxvrUnnhz pic.twitter.com/Uzi77mvl8K
Vyshak's promotion comes to an unceremonious end
Vyshak scored a 49-ball 17, striking two fours before his innings ended unceremoniously with a run out. Notably, Sai Sudharsan came in next, ruling out speculations over his fitness.
Earlier in the match, India C managed 234 in reply to India A’s 297 in the first innings, thanks to Shashwat Rawat’s 124. India A declared their second innings on 286-8 after Riyan Parag smashed a 101-ball 73, followed by Rawat’s 53 off 67.
At the time of writing, India C were 78-1 after 29 overs.
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