Athish, Madhava Prasad Hit Tons as TN U23 Take 189-Run Lead at Chepauk

Centuries from opening batsmen SR Athish and KTA Madhava Prasad powered Tamil Nadu Under-23 into a dominant position against Rest of India Under-23 on the second day of their match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday. The hosts finished the day at 368 for 1 in 100 overs, securing a commanding first-innings lead of 189 runs.

Resuming from their overnight score of 45 without loss after bowling out Rest of India for 179 in 71.5 overs on Thursday, the Tamil Nadu opening pair dismantled the opposition bowling attack. Athish and Madhava Prasad put together a 250-run stand in 66.1 overs for the opening wicket, establishing complete control over the contest played between the Col CK Nayudu Trophy winners and the Rest of India squad.

Athish struck 137 runs from 203 deliveries, hitting 19 boundaries and three sixes. Madhava Prasad remained unbeaten at stumps on 150 off 302 balls, featuring 20 boundaries. Following Athish's dismissal, Madhava Prasad joined forces with Kiran Karthikeyan to compile an unbroken 118-run partnership across 33.5 overs. Kiran closed the day unbeaten on 56 runs to compound the visitors' struggles in the field.

Rest of India bowler Sachin Rathi, who claimed six wickets on Thursday, had observed that the pitch possessed no demons and would reward batsmen who applied themselves. The Tamil Nadu openers capitalised fully on the conditions, matching Rathi's assessment throughout their prolonged stay at the crease.

TR Arasu, a member of the Tamil Nadu Senior State selection committee, praised the opening duo's left-right combination and discipline. He noted that Athish had wicket-kept for almost an entire day before returning to construct a major innings, commending his physical endurance, shot selection, and positive pacing. Arasu added that Madhava Prasad initially provided steady support before expanding his stroke play.

The match carries significant stakes for the participating players, as the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association has only named its squad for the opening Ranji Trophy fixture. Arasu stated that strong performers in this fixture against the country's leading Under-23 players will remain in contention for selection in the remainder of Tamil Nadu's Ranji Trophy campaign.