Jharkhand looked to post an outright win against Kerala after setting a huge target of 317 runs and then reducing the hosts to 71 for one on the third day of their Ranji Trophy Group C tie here today.
Kerala need 246 runs for victory on the final day tomorrow with nine wickets in hand.
Having scored 202 in their opening essay, Jharkhand had bundled out Kerala for just 148 to take a first innings lead.
Resuming on 47 for two in their second innings, Jharkhand went on to score 262 all out to take an upper hand.
Overnight batsman Ishan Kishan top scored with 100-ball 58. Saurabh Tiwary (46), Kaushal Singh (44) and Anand Singh (43) also chipped in with important runs.
Chasing a massive target, Kerala lost a wicket. At stumps, Akshay Kodoth was unbeaten 37 and Rohan Prem on five.
Brief scores:
Jharkhand: 202 & 262 (Ishan Kishan 58; KS Monish 5/66)
Kerala: 148 & 71/1 (Akshay Kodoth batting 37).
