Hanuma Vihari scores his 21st first-class century

Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari displayed some great determination against Australia A on Saturday. The 27-year-old made his way to a classy century in 188 balls. With his hundred, Vihari became the fourth Indian player to notch a 50+ score in the 2nd innings. He also became the second Indian to score a century in the practice matches after Ajinkya Rahane.

On the other hand, Rishabh Pant was also in a different zone altogether. The wicket-keeper batsman played a sublime knock of 103* runs off 73 balls. His century included nine boundaries and six sixes. The batsman showed great competence and concentration during his innings. With his hundred India put up a commanding lead of 425 runs.

Gill, Agarwal, and Pant lashed out at Australian bowlers

Hanuma Vihari stimulates his selection chances for other games with a smart knock. The batting-allrounder grabbed the opportunity as he registered a patient hundred against the hosts. Vihari was brought in to bat at No.4, with India’s score reading was 108-2.

The Andhra batsman showed great concentration against the Australian pace bowling before his steady century. The batsman in his impressive innings smashed 13 boundaries. Vihari’s hundred will serve as a timely reminder of his abilities. Hanuma Vihari can serve as an extra batsman in the upcoming test series and also chip in some useful overs during the matches.

After the first Test, Vihari could even play at the No.4 position as a replacement of Virat Kohli. His excellent technique and discipline at the crease can be of great benefit to the Indian side.

The batsman’s ton certainly seemed to be a hit amongst the fans. Indian fanatics expressed excitement about the day’s play. Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, and Rishabh Pant also had a great outing. Critics praised Vihari’s form, and he could be India’s solid middle-order in the series, which is scheduled to begin on December 17.

Hanuma Vihari’s Test stats for India

Hanuma Vihari earned his test debut for India in September 2018. He has played a total of nine Test matches for India. He has scored 552 runs to date. During his short IPL career, the former Sunrisers Hyderabad batsman has also scored a century and four fifties. The 27-year-old has the highest score of 111 runs to his name.

The batting all-rounder has also proved useful with the ball. He has picked up five wickets in his Test career and has a bowling average of 36. At the end of the day, India was 386 for four, leading by 472 runs with a day to go.

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