Giles Shield, Semifinals: Akshat Joshi Shines For General Education Academy With Brilliant Ton

General Education Academy Chembur posted 224-9 in 80 overs on Day one of the 123rd Giles Shield second semifinal against Dnyandeep Seva Mandal Primary and Secondary School at Bombay Gymkhana on Tuesday. Right-handed batter Akshat Joshi made 110 in 195 balls which included 16 fours. With a focussed and patient approach, he navigated the oppositions attack with ease, piling on runs for his side. Anup Yadav was the pick of the bowlers snapping up (3-15) while Umair Nadeem grabbed (3-46). When Dnyandeep came out to bat, they finished with 7-0 in 2 overs at the end of day 1.

Earlier, the toss at Bombay Gymkhana was conducted by former India cricketer and batting coach Sanjay Bangar who was chief guest on the occassion. MSSA Cricket Secretary Nadim Memon, MCA Selectors, MSSA Cricket Committee team members along with parents of the young cricketers also graced the occasion. General Education Academy won the toss and elected to bat first in the three-day semifinal after their school band showcased their skill sets.

Meanwhile on Day 2 of the first semifinal RR Education Trust posted 135 all out in 61.4 overs against Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Vidyalaya at Parsee Gymkhana. Left-handed batter Shaurya Navale top scored with 45. Off spinner Aayush Chavan stole the show with his great bowling grabbing (4-55) in 27 overs. Advit Tiwari picked (3-36) in 18 overs. The RR team faltered early on as they were 35-5 at one stage in 20.4 overs. They could not recover and were bundled out quickly. During their second innings, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar finished the day with 116-6 in 34 overs. Advait Joshi picked three wickets.

Previously, winning the toss and electing to bat first, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar posted 221 in 71.4 overs in their first innings on Day 1. Splendid batting performances from Advit Tiwari 72* and left-handed batter Sammit Kothmire 61, ensured their side put up a good total on the board. Amongst the bowlers, left arm spinner Advait Joshi bowled a brilliant spell and snapped up (4-64) in 21 overs. Medh Daiya also picked three wickets.