In a dominant display, Australia A defeated India A by 6 wickets in the second unofficial Test match, clinching the two-match series 2-0. Key to the victory was 19-year-old Sam Konstas, who scored an impressive unbeaten 73 off 128 balls, steering Australia A to a six-wicket win.
Match Overview: India A posted a competitive target of 168 runs, putting early pressure on Australia A. Prasidh Krishna’s impactful start saw Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft dismissed in consecutive deliveries in the first over. However, Konstas, alongside Nathan McSweeney, stabilized the innings with a crucial 46-run partnership for the third wicket.
Bowling Highlights: Despite Krishna’s early success, Mukesh Kumar’s efforts, which included dismissing McSweeney (25) and Kotian (21), couldn’t halt the Australian chase. Konstas, with support from Beau Webster (46 not out), led the visitors to victory. Prasidh Krishna claimed 2 wickets, while Mukesh Kumar and Tanush Kotian picked up one each.
India A’s Second Innings Performance: India A was bowled out for 229 in their second innings, building a lead of 167 runs. Dhruv Jurel top-scored with a solid 68, while Nitish Reddy contributed 38. Tanush Kotian added a handy 44, and Prasidh Krishna chipped in with 29. Other batters struggled, including captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (11) and KL Rahul (10). Beau Webster took 3 wickets, Corey Roccioli grabbed 4, and Nathan McAndrew secured 2.
Playing XIs:
India A: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Sai Sudharsan, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Nitish Reddy, Tanush Kotian, Khaleel Ahmed, Prasidh Krishna, Mukesh Kumar.
Australia A: Marcus Harris, Sam Konstas, Cameron Bancroft, Nathan McSweeney (c), Beau Webster, Oliver Davies, Jimmy Peirson (wk), Michael Neser, Nathan McAndrew, Scott Boland, Corey Roccioli.
Australia A’s victory underscores their solid depth and composure in high-pressure situations, while India A will look to regroup and learn from this series defeat.
