Central Zone’s Danish Malewar and Rajat Patidar unleashed a batting masterclass, dismantling a lackluster North East Zone attack to power their team to an imposing 432 for 2 in 77 overs before rain halted play on the opening day of the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal.

The 21-year-old Malewar, fresh off a standout Ranji Trophy final century, remained unbeaten on a career-best 198, laced with 35 fours and a six, while Patidar, the seasoned RCB IPL captain, smashed a belligerent 125 off 96 balls, featuring 21 fours and three sixes, as the duo combined for 56 boundaries. Malewar and Patidar forged a dynamic 199-run second-wicket partnership in just over 28 overs after opener Aryan Juyal (60 batting) retired hurt due to an abdominal injury.

Malewar, nearing a maiden first-class double hundred and 1,000 career runs in his 10th match, showcased elegance with 20 boundaries in his third first-class ton, while Patidar’s 14th century included audacious reverse sweeps and a crisp cover drive off North East’s Rongsen Jonathan (0/130). Patidar fell sweeping pacer Pheiroijam Jotin, but Malewar, joined by Yash Rathod (32 not out), added an unbeaten 85-run third-wicket stand, maintaining Central’s dominance.

North East’s bowlers struggled, with Jonathan and Jotin unable to stem the run flow on a batsman-friendly pitch. As rain curtailed the day’s play, Central Zone’s commanding position, driven by Malewar’s poise and Patidar’s aggression, sets the stage for a potential rout, signaling their intent to dominate the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal and beyond.

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