Gujarat on top against Punjab on opening day

A solid performance by the top half helped Gujarat reach 284 for four in their first innings on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy Group B cricket match against Punjab here today.
Electing to bat after winning the toss, Gujarat recovered from the early loss of opener Smit Patel (14) to be placed comfortably when the stumps were drawn for the day.
Priyank Kirit Panchal was the top-scorer today with a 144-ball 85, which included eight fours and a couple of sixes. Panchal shared a 117-run stand with Bhargav Merai before both the batsmen departed in quick succession, dismissed by Vinay Choudhary.

However, the loss did not affect the team too badly as Venugopal Rao and Rujul Bhatt shared a 99-run unbeaten stand. While Rao had gathered 75, Bhatt was steady on 34 when play ended for the day.
While Rao struck 10 fours in his 133-ball effort today, Bhatt managed three boundaries.
Choudhary was the most successful Punjab bowler with a couple of scalps against his name. He gave away 76 runs in his 27 overs.
Brief Scores:
Gujarat 1st Innings: 284/4 in 90 overs (Priyank Kirit Panchal 85, Y Venugopal Rao 75 batting, Vinay Choudhary 2/76).