The Bengal batsmen failed to make use of the momentum provided by their bowlers as they got shot out for an embarrassing total of 88 in their first innings in the Ranji Trophy Elite Group B match against Baroda in Cuttack on Friday.

While the bowlers had restricted Baroda to 181 on the first day, the team’s batting lacked spine on Day II, lasting only 34.3 overs and conceding a first innings lead of 93. Baroda extended that lead further to 237 by stumps as they reached 144/5 in their second essay.

Resuming the day on 24/1, the Bengal batsmen needed to show application on a Barabati Stadium track that was assisting the seamers. But that was not to be.

Two of Bengal’s most experienced batsmen — Anustup Majumdar and Manoj Tiwary — were out for ducks.

Atit Sheth, the 26-year-old medium pacer, was the pick of the lot among the Baroda bowlers, snaring five wickets. Left-armer Lukman Meriwala too had an impressive outing, returning figures of 3/15.

Baroda, boosted by the fine performance from their bowlers, batted better in their second innings. While captain Kedar Devdhar, opening the innings, made 41, No.3 batsman Pratyush Kumar was batting on 39 when the stumps were drawn on Friday.

For Bengal, Ishan Porel has taken two wickets in the second innings.

Bengal coach Arun Lal made it clear that his batsmen will have to pull up their socks. “We just have to bat very well now... It’s doable.”

Brief scores: Baroda 181 & 144/5 (Pratyush Kumar 39 batting; Ishan Porel 2/50). Bengal 88 (Atit Sheth 5/44).