For Tamil Nadu’s Andre Siddarth, the ongoing Ranji Trophy campaign has been a steep learning curve. Having burst forth last year with 612 runs in eight matches at an average of 68, the bespectacled 19-year-old batter was expected to kick on. But before Sunday, two half-centuries in seven innings this season as part of a floundering batting unit had left Andre open to scrutiny.

After batting at No. 4 in the first three rounds, he was demoted to six and seven in the two innings against Andhra in the previous match. On day one against Uttar Pradesh, left-arm spinner P. Vidyuth was sent ahead with TN stuttering at 20 for three.

But once Andre strode to the crease on Sunday, he exhibited his quality with a classy 121 off 205 balls. That he was eager to prove a point came through in his animated celebration after reaching his hundred – he raised his cupped right hand next to his ear while looking in the direction of the dressing room.

Cut down the noise

“The celebration was just to cut down the noise. There were a lot of discussions in team meetings that weren’t ideal. I wanted to play freely and see what happens,” Andre said after the day’s play.

The youngster didn’t hide his displeasure about head coach M. Senthilnathan moving him down the batting order. “The head coach has made some decisions. I was not happy that I went at No. 6. After a certain point, I realised I cannot change his mind. I have to just bat,” Andre said.