Ranji Trophy: Services set to take first innings lead against Goa

Porvorim: Despite opener Swapnil Asnodkar scoring a fine century, Goa could reach 268 for eight, still needing another 134 runs to avoid conceding the first innings lead to Services, on the penultimate day of the Ranji Trophy Group C match here on Saturday.

With just two wickets remaining, Goa have uphill task to overhaul Services' first innings score of 402. The visitors look set to take lead tomorrow in a game heading for a draw.

Resuming at an overnight score of 63 for two, Goa lost six wickets today with none of the batsmen, expect Asnodkar, making it count.

Asnodkar was the lone batsman to make a mark with his 139 (358b, 14X4). He played a sedate knock as he took the battle into rival camp even as wicket tumbled at regular interval at the other end.

At stumps, Shadab Jakati (13) and Rituraj Singh (6) were at the crease.

For the visitors Diwesh Pathania (3/86) and P S Poonia (3/45) were the most successful bowlers claiming three wickets each.

Brief scores:

Services 1st innings: 402

Goa 1st innings: 268 for eight (Swapnil Asnodkar 139; Diwesh Pathania 3/86, P S Poonia 3/45).