Calcutta: Consistent batting down the order saw Bengal get to within 13 runs of Assam's first innings total on the third day of the East Zone Ranji Trophy league match here yesterday. Replying to Assam's 347, Bengal were 334 for nine at close.

Resuming at 137 for two, overnight not out batsmen Rohan Gavaskar and Srikant Kalyani both got half centuries. While Gavaskar got 63, Kalyani was out for 59. Gavaskar faced 112 balls and hit seven fours while Kalyani faced 153 balls and hit nine boundaries. Safi Ahmed (21) and A Das (28) came up with valuable contributions and then WP Majumdar kept the latter half going with an unbeaten 54. In an aggressive mood, Majumdar hit five fours and three sixes while facing 94 balls. He and last man Jyotish Das (8) carry Bengal hopes of snatching first innings points. Sukhwinder Singh was the most successful bowler capturing five wickets for 111 from 46 overs.

© CricInfo