S.V. Rahul scores unbeaten 108 as Andhra recover in Ranji Trophy match at Mulapadu

S.V. Rahul made an unbeaten 108 for Andhra on day two of their Ranji Trophy match against Karnataka in Mulapadu on Monday, anchoring a recovery from 116 for five to 331 for six in reply to Karnataka’s 274.

Rahul, who turned 19 just two days ago, had earlier hit 105 for Andhra in the final of the Dr. (Capt) K. Thimmappiah memorial tournament against Madhya Pradesh at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, and he was making his First Class debut in Mulapadu near here.

He produced a patient, unbeaten 108 (187b, 10x4) on day two and spoke afterwards: “Scoring runs in the first match is always the happiest moment,” said Rahul. “The wicket was not that easy to bat, but not the toughest either. I was a bit nervous, but I had enough seniors to guide me and give confidence.”

Rahul said he idolises Yuvraj Singh and has progressed rapidly through the Andhra ranks, having made an impact in the Col. C.K. Nayudu (under-23) Trophy last year with a double century against Delhi.

On his playing style, he commented: “In age-group cricket, there are not many white-ball or T20 matches. So I am a red-ball cricketer and what I played today was my natural game.”

He has also shown a different facet in the Andhra Premier League, where he has impressed with his six-hitting ability.

If he makes good on his initial promise, a top-draw all-format batter is in the making.