India A seized complete command on the final day of the first unofficial Test against New Zealand A, pushing the hosts into deep trouble during the final innings. The visitors concluded their massive second-innings effort at 516 during the opening session of the day, successfully setting New Zealand A a formidable target of 313 runs to win. Under scoreboard pressure, the home side stumbled badly and slipped to 131 for six wickets.
Aquib Nabi Dismantles Top Order with Triple Strike
Defending the target, India A pacers made an immediate impact with the ball. Aquib Nabi produced a destructive opening spell, tearing through the top order and reducing New Zealand A to 13 for three. His three quick dismissals ensured the hosts were pushed onto the defensive right from the outset of the fourth-innings chase.
Middle-Order Collapse Leaves New Zealand A Reeling
Although the home side attempted to recover after the disastrous start, India A bowlers struck at regular intervals. New Zealand lost their fourth wicket with the score at 91, losing Dean Foxcroft as the total stood at 94. The pressure mounted further when the fifth wicket fell at 110. Shortly after, Kristian Clarke managed just 3 runs before being dismissed. Clarke's departure left New Zealand A reeling at 131 for six, swinging the contest decisively in favor of India A.
Padikkal's 199 Anchors Stunning 516-Run Second-Innings Turnaround
The commanding position marks a remarkable turnaround from the opening phase of the encounter, where India A were bundled out for a meager 113 in their first innings. New Zealand had replied with 317, securing a substantial first-innings advantage. However, India A mounted an emphatic response in their second turn at the crease. Devdutt Padikkal led the charge with a magnificent knock of 199, falling agonizingly short of a double century. Sai Sudharsan supported with 91 runs, while Yash Rathod contributed 66 and Washington Sundar added 52 runs to push the tally to 516.
