In a thrilling encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Rishabh Pant-led India A clinched a dramatic three-wicket victory over South Africa A. The first unofficial Test, held at the Centre of Excellence Ground, saw a crucial unbeaten 62-run partnership between Anshul Kamboj and Manav Suthar turn the tide in India A’s favor on the final day.
The chase of 275 runs proved to be an uphill battle for India A, who found themselves in deep trouble early on at 32 for 3. South Africa A’s bowlers, Tshepo Moreki (2/33) and Okuhle Cele (1/64), delivered a fiery opening spell that threatened to derail India’s pursuit.
However, a counterattacking innings of 90 runs from the dynamic Rishabh Pant provided much-needed stability. He was well-supported by Rajat Patidar (28) and Ayush Badoni (34), who helped steer the innings back on track. Just when it seemed India A was gaining control, both Pant and Badoni departed on the final morning, once again giving South Africa A a scent of victory.
It was at this critical juncture that Anshul Kamboj (37 not out) and Manav Suthar (20 not out) demonstrated exceptional composure. They dug deep, displaying calm heads and intelligent shot selection to guide India A safely home, sealing a memorable win.
Earlier in the match, South Africa A had posted a competitive total of 309 runs in their first innings. Half-centuries from Jordan Hermann (71), Zubayr Hamza (66), and Rubin Hermann (54) were the highlights of their batting effort. India A’s Tanush Kotian was the pick of the bowlers, taking an impressive 4 for 83.
In response, Ayush Mhatre’s resilient 65 runs helped India A get within touching distance of South Africa A’s total. However, spinner Prenelan Subrayen’s brilliant spell of 5 for 61 ensured the visitors secured a narrow first-innings lead.
Kamboj (3/39) and Kotian (4/26) once again shone with the ball in South Africa A’s second innings, combining to dismiss them for 199. This set up the tense 275-run chase that culminated in India A’s dramatic victory by mid-afternoon on Day 4.
Tanush Kotian’s outstanding all-round performance, contributing both with bat and ball, rightfully earned him the Player of the Match award.
This thrilling win gives India A a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, with the second game scheduled to be played in Mysuru.
Brief Scores:
- South Africa A 1st Innings: 309 all out
- India A 1st Innings: 234 all out
- South Africa A 2nd Innings: 199 all out
- India A 2nd Innings: 277 for 7 in 73.1 overs