Bhubneshwar, December 06: A fighting half-century from Muralidharen Gautam guided Karnataka to 238/6 on the opening day of the Ranji Trophy Elite Group-A encounter against Orissa here today. The hosts, fighting to save relegation, put up an improved show to restrict formidable Karnatka unit from scoring big on the first day s play. Alok Mangaraj struck twice for Orissa cleaning up the openers–Robin Uthapa (37) and B Pawan (29)– and broke the first wicket-partnership of 77, which was acquiring threatening proportion. After the departure of the openers, the touring side lost its way and slumped to 130/5. Amit Verma in company of wicket-keeper Gautam steadied the southern ship for a brief period with an 85-run stand for the sixth wicket. Verma (39), like his other counter-part, gave way his wicket after getting a promising start. He thick edged an away going delivery in Das s gloves of GB Poddar. Gautam continued to fight for his side and remained unconquered at 63, with help of eight boundaries. Sunil Raju was giving company to the Karnataka wicket-keeper when stumps were drawn for the day.
—-Agencies