Kanpur, Unofficial ODI Series: A stunning century from Prabhsimran Singh powered India A to a thrilling two-wicket victory over Australia A in the series-deciding third unofficial ODI on Tuesday. The hosts chased down a stiff 317-run target in 46 overs, clinching the series 2-1 in front of a lively crowd at Green Park Stadium.
Early Strikes Put Australia A on the Backfoot
Opting to bat first, Australia A endured a disastrous start. Arshdeep Singh (3/38) and Harshit Rana (3/61) ripped through the top order, reducing the visitors to 26/3 within six overs. Lachlan Hearne and Cooper Connolly attempted to rebuild, but Rana struck again to remove Hearne and keep India on top.
Connolly’s counter-attacking knock of 64 off 49 balls, laced with four sixes, gave Australia temporary relief. His brisk partnership with Hearne added 69 runs before India clawed back, dismissing both in quick succession to leave the tourists struggling at 135/6.
Edwards and Scott Stage Recovery
Australia’s lower order then turned the tide. Jack Edwards (89) and Liam Scott (73) stitched together a brilliant 152-run stand, pushing the total beyond 300. Their aggressive strokeplay punished the Indian spinners, giving the visitors a strong finish at 317 all out in 50 overs.
Prabhsimran Lights Up the Chase
India’s reply began in explosive fashion thanks to Prabhsimran Singh, who tore into the Australian attack from the outset. His 68-ball 102 — featuring crisp drives and fearless hitting — ensured India A stayed ahead of the required rate. Alongside Abhishek Sharma (31), he guided the hosts to 83 inside 12 overs before Sharma fell.
Australia fought back with quick dismissals of Abhishek and Tilak Varma, but India A’s middle order held firm. Shreyas Iyer (62) and Riyan Parag (62) combined for a century stand, stabilising the innings and keeping the chase on track.
India Hold Nerve
Leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha (4/72) triggered a collapse by removing both set batters, while Todd Murphy (4/46) piled pressure with a double strike. At 282/8, Australia A sensed an upset. But Vipraj Nigam’s calm unbeaten 24 proved decisive, as he guided India A home with four overs remaining.
Series Win Showcases India A’s Depth
The win highlighted the depth of India’s bench strength, with Prabhsimran’s fearless batting standing out as a defining factor. For Australia A, Edwards and Scott’s fightback showed promise, but the early collapse cost them dearly.
India A’s 2-1 triumph not only secured the series but also provided selectors with encouraging signs ahead of a busy international calendar.
Brief Scores
Australia A 317 (Jack Edwards 89, Liam Scott 73; Arshdeep Singh 3-38, Harshit Rana 3-61)
India A 322/8 in 46 overs (Prabhsimran Singh 102, Shreyas Iyer 62, Riyan Parag 62; Todd Murphy 4-46, Tanveer Sangha 4-72)
Result: India A won by 2 wickets; clinched series 2-1.