Pune, Nov 5 Skipper Harshad Khadiwale with his 146 led the Maharashtra batting order as the hosts took a 159-run second innings lead against Bengal in their Ranji Trophy Super League Group B match here today.

Bengal restricted Maharashtra to a paltry 179 in first innings and then piled up 325 runs in their own essay, but Khadiwale's men found their touch in the second innings to take lead on the third day of the encounter.

At stumps, the hosts, who resumed at 46 for none, were at 305 for seven wickets with R Motwani (59 n.o.) and K Adhav (0 n.o.) in the crease.

Khadiwale, resuming at personal 24, hit 16 boundaries during his 146-ball innings before he went down to paceman Ranadeb Bose (3/47) in the 52nd over.

Besides, Motwani, who struck seven fours, and G Gaikwad (43) also chipped in with valuable contributions.

- (Agencies)