Ranji Trophy: Teenager Ayush Mhatre's ton, bowlers put Mumbai in command |

Teenaged opener Ayush Mhatre compiled his maiden first-class century, steering Mumbai to a dominant position on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match against Maharashtra on Friday. Following a stellar performance by the Mumbai bowlers, Mhatre’s knock put the defending champions in control.

Opting to bat first, Maharashtra were bowled out for a mere 126 runs. Left-arm spinner Shams Mulani was the standout bowler for Mumbai, taking 3/7 in 6.4 overs. Mohit Avasthi (3/31), Royston Dias (2/31), and India pacer Shardul Thakur (2/51) were also instrumental. Maharashtra captain Ruturaj Gaikwad had a forgettable outing, falling for a two-ball duck. Nikhil Naik (38) and Azim Kazi (36) provided some resistance but couldn’t prevent Maharashtra’s collapse.

In reply, Mumbai lost opener Prithvi Shaw (1) early, followed by Hardik Tamore (4), with both wickets claimed by Maharashtra’s Pradeep Dadhe (2/51). However, Mhatre (127*), playing just his third match, steadied the innings alongside captain Ajinkya Rahane (31). The duo added 99 runs for the third wicket before Rahane was trapped lbw by left-arm spinner Hitesh Walunj.

Mhatre, who hit 17 fours and three sixes in his 163-ball innings, then partnered with senior batter Shreyas Iyer (45*) to take Mumbai to 220/3 at stumps. Their unbroken 97-run partnership extended Mumbai’s lead to 94 runs by the end of the day.