England Lions recovered from a disappointing batting performance yesterday to regain control against a Central Zone side on day three of their Duleep Trophy match.
The home side were bowled out for 180, having started the day on 23 for two, while a fine unbeaten 71 from Michael Carberry steered the tourists to 146-1 at stumps, needing a further 150 for victory on the final day.
Carberry, who has been impressive on this tour, hit 12 fours and a six while partner Michael Yardy is 57 not out. Opener Joe Denly was the only England wicket to fall, trapped in front of his wicket by Praveen Gupta for 15 as the Lions attempted to become the first overseas side to win the coveted Indian domestic trophy.
Mohammad Kaif, the Central Zone captain and former India one-day international batsman, provided the only real resistance, making 42 before being bowled by Monty Panesar.
Sanjib Sanyal proved his worth with the bat down the order, making 37 off 47 balls, but it was too little too late as the last three wickets fell for eight runs.
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Adil Rashid picked up the last Central Zone two wickets to fall, claiming two wickets for three runs off 11 balls, while Graham Onions chipped in with three for 50. The other wickets were shared between Steve Kirby, Alan Richardson and Panesar.