India off-spinner Saransh Jain claimed career-best figures before debutant opener Saksham Purohit struck an unbeaten century as Madhya Pradesh seized complete control against Bihar on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A clash at Holkar Stadium in Indore on Monday.Jain returned outstanding figures of 7 for 40 in 13 overs to help bundle out Bihar for a modest 99 in 30.3 overs, before Purohit’s maiden first-class hundred guided the hosts to 261 for 3 at stumps, a commanding lead of 162 runs.The collapse began early for Bihar after India pacer Avesh Khan removed opener Naman Gaurav and No. 3 batter Sraman Nigrodh for ducks. Left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya chipped in with one wicket, but the day belonged to Jain, who exploited helpful conditions to run through the middle and lower order.The off-spinner struck three times in his opening spell as Bihar slumped to 37 for 5, leaving the visitors chasing the game from the outset. Three of Jain’s seven dismissals came either bowled or leg-before, underlining his accuracy and control.For Bihar, opener Mangal Mahrour offered lone resistance. Fresh from a century against Baroda in the previous round, the right-hander top-scored with 42 off 87 balls, including four boundaries. Apart from Mahrour, only spinner Suraj Kashyap reached double figures with 15, while extras contributed 22 runs, the second-highest tally of the innings.Having secured a sizeable first-innings advantage, Madhya Pradesh’s batters ensured there was no let-up. Purohit produced a composed unbeaten 113 off 166 balls, studded with eight fours, to mark his first-class debut in memorable fashion.He shared a substantial opening stand with Yash Dubey, who counter-attacked with an entertaining 84 off 94 deliveries, striking 11 boundaries in process. The partnership effectively batted Bihar out of the contest on the opening day.Suraj Kashyap accounted for Dubey to provide Bihar their first breakthrough, while pacer Amod Yadav claimed the other two wickets to fall.At stumps, Purohit was unbeaten alongside captain Rajat Patidar (21*), with Madhya Pradesh well placed to push for their first win of the season.
