India A’s Resilient Response Led by Padikkal and Sudharsan
On Day 2 of the first four-day match, Devdutt Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan spearheaded a comeback for India A, forming an unbroken 96-run partnership for the third wicket against New Zealand A. After a disappointing first innings where they were dismissed for just 113 runs, India A ended the day at 106 for two in their second innings, trailing by 98 runs as New Zealand A had posted 317 in their first innings, establishing a 204-run advantage.
Padikkal remained not out at 56, while Sudharsan was on 39 when play concluded. The pair stabilized the innings after the early loss of openers KL Rahul (4) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (5), leaving the team at a precarious 10 for two.
New Zealand A’s Strong Performance and Bowling Highlights
Hosts Build on Their Lead
New Zealand A began the day at 135 for three and managed to extend their total to 317. Key contributions came from Dean Foxcroft, who scored 51, and Curtis Heaphy with 44 runs. Rhys Mariu was the top scorer with 76 runs, while Matthew Clarke added 42. For India A, Anshul Kamboj and Auqib Nabi each took three wickets, with Akash Deep claiming two and Washington Sundar dismissing Foxcroft.
Recap of Day 1
New Zealand A had a commanding Day 1, bowling India A out for 113 runs before reaching 135 for three at stumps, leading by 22 runs. Simon Keene was the standout bowler for the hosts, taking five wickets, while Zak Gibson contributed with three. India A’s top scorer was Yash Rathod, who remained unbeaten on 44, with Padikkal adding 32. In response, Rhys Mariu’s 76 runs helped establish a solid 132-run opening partnership with Curtis Heaphy, who ended Day 1 not out on 37. As play resumes on Day 3, India A will aim to capitalize on the momentum created by Padikkal and Sudharsan.