Gandhi's 164 helps Tamil Nadu take first-innings lead

Kaushik Gandhi's 164-run knock paved the way for Tamil Nadu to take a crucial first-innings lead of 70 runs in their Group A Ranji Trophy cricket match against Punjab here today.
Resuming on 218/4, Tamil Nadu were helped by Gandhi's innings and his 85-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Dinesh Karthik (54) and another 79 for the fifth wicket with Vijay Shankar (33).
Thanks to their efforts, Tamil Nadu managed 354 before being all out, replying to Punjab's first-innings total of 284. Gandhi, who was batting on 75 overnight, struck 21 boundaries and faced 350 balls.
Manpreet Gony (4/81) Siddarth Kaul (3/86) were the most successful bowlers for Punjab.

In their second essay, Punjab were 121/2 when the stumps were drawn on the third and penultimate day at Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground.
While Manan Vohra got out after scoring 41, Uday Kaul (43) and Mandeep Singh (35) were batting for Punjab at the close of play.
Punjab led by 51 runs with eight wickets remaining in their second innings.