Indian student scores triple hundred for Oxford University

Oxford University's Indian origin student Samridh Agarwal cracked a magnificent triple-century against Cambridge in a first-class match at the FP Fenner's ground in Cambridge.

Skipper Samridh cracked an unbeaten 313 and became the first ever cricketer to score a triple century in an University match and also eclipsed the previous record of 247 set by another Indian origin player Salil Oberoi.

It might be interesting to note that before Oberoi, the University record for the highest individual score was held by Iftikar Ali Khan Pataudi -- father of the legendary Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi.

Due to Samridh's efforts, Oxford managed a mammoth 550 for seven declared and then bowled out Cambridge for 119 in their first innings. Following on, Cambridge are 179 for five in their second essay.

The 22-year-old Agra born Samridh is in his final year of his graduation in Material Sciences at the Oxford University.

Samridh faced 312 deliveries and smashed 41 fours and three sixes en route his record-breaking knock.

"It is my last year here and I especially wanted to do well, almost like leaving a legacy. It was a really nice feeling to reach 300 and then to bowl them out cheaply was a bonus," Samridh told Oxfordmail.co.uk.

Oxford coach Graham Charlesworth said,"It was a really special day for him and an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience to see someone make 300. Sam practises throughout the year on his batting and bowling and works harder than any other batsman. It was nice to see his dedication rewarded."

Image: Oxford University

Photograph: Eddie Keogh/Reuters