Lucknow: Shreyas Iyer’s first-class comeback did not go as planned, but Dhruv Jurel’s brilliant century and Devdutt Padikkal’s composed knock ensured India A fought their way back into contention against Australia A on Day 3 of the first unofficial Test at the Ekana Stadium.
Skipper Shreyas Iyer, under the spotlight after modest outings in the Duleep Trophy, failed once again with the bat. The right-hander managed only 8 runs off 13 deliveries before being trapped lbw by off-spinner Corey Rocchiccioli. Iyer’s dismissal left India A in a tricky spot at 222/4, still trailing by a big margin.
Jagadeesan and Sudharsan Lay Early Foundation
Resuming the day at 116/1, opener Narayan Jagadeesan carried on from his overnight half-century but fell soon after for 64, edging Xavier Bartlett to the keeper. His partnership with Sai Sudharsan had added valuable runs, and Sudharsan kept the scoreboard ticking with a fluent 73, including some crisp strokeplay. He missed out on a century, falling lbw to Cooper Connolly just when he looked set for a big one.
Jurel-Padikkal Partnership Turns the Tide
With India wobbling, Dhruv Jurel walked in and immediately shifted gears. Playing with confidence, the wicketkeeper-batter smashed his way to a run-a-ball century (113 off 132 balls), peppered with ten fours and four sixes. At the other end, Padikkal anchored the innings with an unbeaten 86 off 178 balls, showing grit and patience.
Their massive 181-run partnership for the fifth wicket completely changed the complexion of the innings, taking India A to 403/4 at stumps, just 129 runs behind Australia A’s first-innings total.
India Back in the Contest
While Iyer’s form remains a concern, the partnership between Jurel and Padikkal has breathed life back into the game. With plenty of batting still left, India A now have a real chance to push for a first-innings lead on Day 4.