Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) batsmen were on a roll in their semifinal encounter against champions, Hyderabad XI in the Moin-Ud-Dowla Gold Cup 2012 at Gymkhana Ground here today. Leading the attack, after being put into bat, was T20 specialist Shikar Dhawan who slammed 100 before retiring hurt. Playing with equal gusto was Milind Bist, who remained unconquered on 78 to help DDCA end the stipulated 90 overs at a formidable 339 for the loss of seven wickets. Although the outfield was considerably wet following overnight showers, the bowlers found no purchase as Dhawan and Bist went about their attack with flamboyant strokes. Dhawan’s 180-ball knock was laced with ten hits to the fence and a six while Bist hit six fours in his rollicking 82-ball innings. Milind Kumar fell three runs short of a well deserved half-century. Only M A Khader with 2/50 could make some headway with the ball. Earlier, the match was reduced to a 90 overs-a-side match. Meanwhile, the other semifinal match between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka was called off without a ball being bowled as the wicket at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium was not conducive for play. Consequently, the match will be a 50-a-side affair and will be held at the NFC Ground on Wednesday. Brief Scores: Delhi DCA 339 for 7 in 90 Overs (Shikar Dhawan 100 (retied hurt), Milind Kumar 47, Puneet Bist 78 no, M A Khader 2/50) Vs Hyderabad XI. UNI
