Puducherry, Sept 24:
Wicketkeeper-batter Kumar Kushagra struck a composed century as India A established a commanding position against Australia A in the four-day match at Puducherry.
Kushagra made 113 from 240 balls, hitting 13 boundaries, to register his seventh first-class century. His innings proved crucial as India A recovered from 257 for five and went on to post 334 in their first innings.
The century was a patient effort from Kushagra, who spent considerable time at the crease and helped India A build a substantial total after the team had lost five wickets. His ability to occupy the crease for a long period provided stability to the innings and allowed the lower order to contribute.
Spinner Shams Mulani then strengthened India’s position with four wickets for 67 runs as Australia A struggled in their response. India A ended the second day with a decisive 163-run lead, putting the visitors under pressure in the four-day contest.
Kushagra’s performance is particularly significant as he continues to press his case for higher honours. The 23-year-old has been regarded as one of India’s promising wicketkeeper-batters, and another substantial first-class innings strengthens his credentials at a time when the national team’s selection options are being closely watched.
For India A, the combination of Kushagra’s century and Mulani’s four-wicket haul transformed the match. After recovering from a relatively uncertain position on the first day, India A were able to build a sizeable first-innings total and then make significant inroads into Australia’s batting.
With a substantial lead already secured, India A will look to press their advantage when play resumes. Kushagra’s hundred and Mulani’s spell have put the hosts in a strong position heading into the latter stages of the four-day match.