Key performances lift India A to 163-run lead over Australia A

Puducherry, 24 September – The first unofficial Test between India A and Australia A showcased several standout innings. Sai Sudharsan anchored the Indian innings with 57 runs, while Kumar Kushagra’s 113, featuring twelve fours, propelled the total to 334. Tanush Kotian’s 69 added further stability, forming a 138‑run partnership with Kushagra that moved the score beyond 250.

Australia A’s bowling attack was led by Corey Roccioli, who claimed four wickets, and Todd Murphy, who took three. In response, Australia A’s batting collapsed at 171, despite Jason Sangha’s 46 and crucial lower‑order partnerships with Josh Philip and Liam Scott.

India A’s bowlers Shams Mulani (four wickets), Tushar Deshpande and Tanush Kotian (two each) dismantled the Australian line‑up. In the second innings, Australia A posted 199, with Devdatt Paddikal and Sai Sudharsan contributing valuable runs.

The cumulative effect of these performances gave India A a commanding 163‑run advantage heading into the final innings, where Australia A began a daunting chase of 363 runs. By the close of day three, they were 55 for two, with Sam Contas (20) and Nathan McSwiney (23*) at the crease.

The series will resume with the second unofficial Test on 29 September, followed by three one‑day matches on 6, 9 and 11 October.