Shillong, Nov 16: A superb unbeaten 150 by Sikkim captain Denree Lepcha has put the visitors in a strong position against Meghalaya in their U-19 men’s Cooch Behar Trophy plate group match at the MCA Ground here today.

Resuming their second innings at 46/2, Sikkim were bowled out for 291, setting Meghalaya a target of 260 for victory. At stumps on Day 2, Meghalaya were 53/3, still needing 207 runs.

This comes after a dramatic opening day where Sikkim were skittled for 76 and Meghalaya replied with 108 in their first innings.

Sikkim’s batting effort was transformed on Day 2, led by Denree’s masterclass — a 198-ball knock studded with 22 fours and two sixes. He found solid support from Sahil, who ground out a patient 51 off 164 balls, the pair adding 105 runs for the fourth wicket. Contributions from the lower order helped push the total close to 300.

Just after Denree reached his 150, No. 11 Abi was bowled by Gaurav Narleng (2/22), ending the innings. For Meghalaya, Mewankitbok Kharpuri impressed once again with 3/48, giving him excellent match figures of 8/65. Rudra Singh Rathor (2/44) and Paisal Ali (1/13) also chipped in.

Sikkim carried their momentum into the field, displaying high energy as Meghalaya faced a difficult session. The hosts lost Rudra for 4, caught behind off Pema, before opener Bishesh Chettry fell to off-spinner Aadnan for 21. Aadnan later bowled Dipayan Nandi (19) in the final over of the day to leave Meghalaya in trouble at 53/3.

Aadnan closed the day with impressive figures of 2/7 in 4.3 overs, while Pema registered 1/15 in 6 overs.

Meghalaya will resume tomorrow needing a determined effort to chase down the remaining runs.