India A seized control on Day 2 of the first unofficial Test against Australia A in Puducherry. A gritty century from wicketkeeper-batter Kumar Kushagra lifted the hosts to 334, before left-arm spinner Shams Mulani ripped through the visitors’ lineup with 4-67 to bowl them out for 171. The 163-run lead sets up a strong platform for India A to push for victory in this four-day clash.
Kushagra’s ton steadies India A after shaky start
India A were in trouble at 97-5 on Day 1 before Kumar Kushagra and Tanush Kotian stitched a crucial 138-run sixth-wicket stand. Kushagra, who had retired hurt on 82 overnight, returned on Day 2 and completed his seventh first-class hundred off 202 balls. He eventually fell for 113 off 240 balls, including 12 fours, as India A were bowled out for 334.
Mulani’s 4-67 dismantles Australia A
In reply, Australia A looked to build around Jason Sangha’s 46 but never found momentum. Shams Mulani, with his left-arm spin, claimed 4-67 to trigger a middle-order collapse and finish the innings at 171. Tushar Deshpande (2-32), along with Tanush Kotian (2-31), provided able support, but it was Mulani’s breakthroughs that tilted the match decisively in India A’s favour.
Australia A’s batting woes and key contributors
Australia A’s top order offered little resistance beyond Sangha’s 46 as India A’s bowlers maintained tight lines on a mixed-soil surface in Puducherry. Corey Rocchiccioli had earlier been the pick of the Australia A bowlers with 4-95, while off-spinner Todd Murphy chipped in with 3-77, but their efforts weren’t enough to prevent India A from gaining a substantial lead.
What’s next for India A and Australia A
With a 163-run cushion, India A will look to bat positively in the second innings and set a challenging target. Australia A, on the other hand, need their top order to fire and their bowlers to strike early if they are to stay in the contest. The third day promises more intrigue as both sides weigh attack versus consolidation.
FAQs
What is India A’s first-innings total against Australia A?
India A were bowled out for 334, with Kumar Kushagra scoring 113.
Who took the most wickets for India A in Australia A’s innings?
Shams Mulani finished with 4-67, the best figures for India A.
How big is India A’s lead?
India A lead by 163 runs after bowling out Australia A for 171.
Who were the main bowlers for Australia A?
Corey Rocchiccioli (4-95) and Todd Murphy (3-77) were the leading wicket-takers.espn.co+1
