Photo via India Today

Abishek Porel hits Ranji century days after bail in rape case, breaks down in tears

Abishek Porel delivered a dramatic Ranji Trophy century for Bengal against Delhi on Monday, capping a day of dominance with an unbeaten 114 that extended his team’s first-innings lead to 64 runs. The left-handed batter, who had been granted bail weeks earlier in a case involving allegations of rape and criminal intimidation, collapsed in tears after reaching his three-figure mark, a raw moment that underscored the emotional weight of his return to competitive cricket.

Porel’s knock—his second first-class century in just 33 matches—followed a season in which he struggled to convert opportunities, managing only 84 runs across three games for Bengal last year. His inclusion in the squad, announced shortly after his bail hearing, had drawn scrutiny, but the Cricket Association of Bengal reiterated that his personal matters were separate from his cricketing role.

Bengal’s bowling attack, led by Mohammed Shami, restricted Delhi to 240 on the first day, setting the stage for Porel and Sudip Gharami’s unbeaten partnership. Gharami’s century (122 not out) had already secured Bengal’s commanding position before Porel’s innings extended it further.

The match resumes on Tuesday, with Bengal aiming to build on their 304-for-three total after two days of play.

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