Hosts Tamil Nadu and fancied Air India scored facile wins on the opening day of the Senior inter-state South Zone women's cricket championship at the Sri Ramachandra Medical College Grounds in Chennai on Monday. While Tamil Nadu scored a five wicket win over Kerala, Air India defeated Karnataka by 67 runs.

Batting first, Kerala were all out for 142 in 45.5 overs. The topscorer was Jini Mathew who hit 25 inclusive of three boundaries. She was ably assisted by Vilasini, whose 23 had four hits to the fence. Kamakshi was the most successful bowler with figures of four for 29. In response, Tamil Nadu romped home in 28.2 overs. Manjula who hit 49 runs with the help of five boundaries was the top scorer. Sejal (37) chipped in with a useful contribution.

In the other match, Air India batting first scored 173 runs in 47 overs. Former Indian skipper Purnima Rau top scored with 51, inclusive of three boundary hits. In reply, Karnataka were all out for 106 in 45.3 overs. Mamta (36) was the top scorer while Karuna Jain got a valuable 28. Depali wrecked Karnataka with figures of three for 8 in 3.3 overs.

Five teams - Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Air India - are taking part in the tournament, being conducted by the Tamil Nadu Women's Cricket Association (TNWCA). The matches will be played on a round robin format with each team playing the other in a one day 50 overs a side match. The two top teams and Air India will qualify for the Senior Nationals.

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