Day three of the second unofficial Test between India A and Australia A in Lucknow concluded with India A still firmly in the hunt. Chasing a challenging target of 412, the Indian side finished the day at 169 for 2, needing another 243 runs for victory. Sai Sudharsan remained steadfast with an unbeaten 44, while Manav Suthar was also at the crease.
Earlier in the day, Australia A resumed their second innings at 16 for 3. Mohammed Siraj made an early impact, dismissing Cooper Connolly cheaply and reducing the visitors to 17 for 4. However, Nathan McSweeney and Josh Philippe then forged a crucial 90-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Philippe contributed a quickfire 50 off just 48 balls, while McSweeney anchored the innings with a resilient performance.
India’s bowlers continued to chip away at the wickets. Gurnoor Singh Brar impressed with figures of 3 for 42, and left-arm spinner Manav Suthar also claimed 3 for 50. Australia A were eventually bowled out for 185, with McSweeney top-scoring with a determined 85 off 149 deliveries. This set India A a formidable 412-run target in the fourth innings.
India’s chase began promisingly, with openers Narayan Jagadeesan and KL Rahul putting on an 85-run stand. Jagadeesan scored 36 before his dismissal, but Rahul continued to accelerate the scoring. He struck nine boundaries during his 92-ball stay, reaching 74 runs before an unfortunate injury forced him to retire hurt.
Following Rahul’s departure, Sai Sudharsan took charge, skillfully guiding India past the 150-run mark with a composed knock. Devdutt Padikkal’s brief innings ended at 5 runs, but Sudharsan and Suthar ensured no further wickets fell before stumps, leaving the match delicately poised.
For Australia A, off-spinner Todd Murphy managed to pick up two crucial wickets, slowing India’s momentum. With one day of play remaining, India A requires 243 runs, while Australia A needs eight wickets to clinch the win. The match promises an exciting finish.
Brief scores:
- Australia A: 420 & 185 (Nathan McSweeney 85*, Josh Philippe 50; Gurnoor Singh Brar 3/42, Manav Suthar 3/50)
- India A: 194 & 169/2 (KL Rahul 74, Sai Sudharsan 44*; Todd Murphy 2/49)