Railways took a stranglehold on their Ranji Trophy pre quarterfinal against Maharashtra on Tuesday. At stumps on the fourth day of the game at the Poona club ground, Railways after taking a first innings lead of 123 runs were 314 for four. With just a day to go, Railways with an overall lead of 437 are virtually through to the quarterfinals.

Railways resumed at 99 for two in their second innings and batted in confident fashion all through the day. The overnight batsmen Sanjay Bangar and KS Parida carried the score to 173 before the former was out for 80. The opening batsman faced 202 balls and hit 12 fours and a six. The two put on 81 runs for the third wicket off 41 overs. Then Parida and Yera Goud rubbed salt into Maharashtra's wounds by adding 133 runs for the fourth wicket off 46.2 overs. Parida was out at 306 after making 84. In a six hour stay at the crease, Parida faced 254 balls and hit 19 fours and a six. Goud who was in punishing mood was unbeaten with 83 at stumps. He faced 152 balls and hit nine fours and a six. The Maharashtra skipper Kanitkar tried eight bowlers in all but met with little success.

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