Opener Shikhar Dhawan and comeback man Gautam Gambhir helped themselves to well-crafted half-centuries as the Indians reached 214 for two at tea, on the first day of their three-day warm-up game against Leicestershire, here on Thursday.
Dhawan made 60 off 100 balls before he decided to retire after being hit on the right forearm by a short delivery from seamer Atif Sheikh. The physio didn’t take any risk as Dhawan had spent decent time in the middle. His innings contained 12 boundaries.
Gambhir, who came in at the fall of Murali Vijay’s (20) wicket also scored 54 off 101 balls before retiring. Having batted for a shade over two hours, Gambhir hit seven fours.
At the break, Cheteshwar Pujara (37 batting, 5x4) and Virat Kohli (24 batting, 3x4) were at the crease.
Making a comeback to the Indian team after nearly one-and-a half years, Gambhir was watchful in his approach and was looking to grind even against a simple attack, trying to stay at the crease as long as possible. His approach worked as he brought up his 50 off 95 balls, and then retired out after making 54, with seven hits to the fence.
The scores: Indians 214 for two, at tea (S. Dhawan 60, G. Gambhir 54) vs Leicestershire.
