Aman Rao blasts unbeaten double century as Hyderabad post 352/5

US-born youngster Aman Rao produced a breathtaking exhibition of power-hitting, smashing an unbeaten 200 to take Hyderabad to a commanding 352/5 against a strong Bengal side on Tuesday. Playing just his third List A match, the 21-year-old showed remarkable maturity and confidence, dominating an experienced bowling attack with ease.

Recently picked by Rajasthan Royals at the IPL auction for ₹30 lakh, Rao justified the hype by reaching his double hundred off only 109 balls, lacing his innings with 12 fours and 13 sixes. His effort marked the second double century of the ongoing tournament, following Odisha batter Swastik Samal’s 212 last month.

Rao set the tone early with a 104-run opening stand alongside Rahul Singh, who contributed a solid 65. He later stitched together an 87-run partnership with captain Tilak Varma (34) , ensuring Hyderabad maintained momentum throughout the innings.

What made Rao’s knock stand out was the quality of bowling he dismantled. Bengal’s attack featured established India pacers Mohammed Shami, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar, off whom Rao alone plundered 120 runs. Shami finished with figures of 3/70, but the damage had already been done.

Rao fittingly capped off his landmark innings by launching the final ball of the innings for a six, leaving Bengal with a steep chase ahead.