Estd. 2006

Immense grit: North East Zone Secures Gritty Draw

Against star-studded Central Zone in Duleep Trophy

News Alliance

REGIONAL, September 01, 2025: In a display of immense grit and determination, the NorthEast Zone cricket team battled to a memorable draw against a formidable Central Zone side in the Duleep Trophy quarter-final match.

Facing a mammoth target and a lineup brimming with international stars, the North East Zone’s resilient second innings performance ensured a historic result.

North East Zone found their heroes in captain Jonathan Rongsen of Nagaland, who scored a valiant 60 runs, and Jehu Anderson of Mizoram, who top-scored with a crucial 64. Their efforts anchored the innings, allowing the team to finish at 200/6 at stumps, successfully weathering the Central Zone attack.

Central Zone, considered one of the tournament favourites, had earlier asserted their dominance by posting a massive 532/4 declared in their first innings, powered by their squad featuring Indian internationals Kuldeep Yadav and Deepak Chahar, alongside IPL star Harsh Dubey. After bowling out North East Zone for 185 in their first innings, Central Zone enforced the follow-on and declared their second innings at 331/7, setting a near-impossible target.

However, the North East Zone batsmen rose to the occasion in their second outing. Displaying staunch resistance and technical proficiency, they batted through the final day to salvage a hard-fought draw against one of the powerhouses of Indian Domestic Cricket.

The Nagaland Cricket Association (NCA) has extended its heartiest congratulations to the entire North East Zone team. This performance is a significant testament to the rapid progress and development of cricket in the North-Eastern region of India.

"This result speaks volumes about the shape of cricket in the North East. It is a proud moment for the entire region," said Mr. Hyunilo Anilo Khing Hon.Secy of the NCA. "To compete with such courage against a team of that caliber shows the immense talent and fighting spirit of our players. We believe that with sustained focus and development, the North East Zone will continue this momentum and achieve even greater heights in the years to come."

Innings Breakdown

Central Zone – First Innings: 532/4 declared (102.0 overs)

North East Zone bowlers faced an uphill task after Central’s top order settled in early. Danish Malewar’s double century (203 off 222) was the highlight of the innings, but NEZ bowlers toiled hard and showed discipline in patches. Akash Kumar bowled with heart, returning with figures of 2/103 in 23 overs, while others kept up the fight despite the pressure.

North East Zone – First Innings: 185 all out (69.3 overs)

In response, NEZ batters showed glimpses of resilience. Karnajit Y (48 off 77) top-scored with a spirited knock, playing some elegant shots and holding the innings together for a significant phase. However, regular wickets hampered momentum, and the side was eventually bowled out for 185.

Top Scorer (NEZ): Karnajit Y – 48 (77)

Central Zone – Second Innings: 331/7 declared (80.3 overs)

Central extended their lead in the second innings, with Shubham Sharma’s 122 (215) steering the scoreboard forward. For NEZ, the bowling effort was more controlled. Akash Kumar (2/44) and Bishworjit (2/67) struck at key moments, ensuring Central did not completely run away with the game.

North East Zone – Second Innings: 200/6 in 58.0 Overs

Chasing a huge task, North East Zone once again showed fighting spirit. Jehu Anderson played a fine knock of 64 off 96 balls, while Rongsen Jonathan added a fluent 60 off 97 balls, both batting confidently against a disciplined Central attack. However, wickets at the other end prevented a big partnership from developing. The innings closed at 185, as NEZ bowed out of the tournament with their heads held high.

Top Scorers (NEZ):

· Jehu Anderson – 64 (96)

· Rongsen Jonathan – 60 (97)

Key Performances for North East Zone

· Jehu Anderson – 64 (96) in the second innings