Can Rishabh Pant Lead India A to Victory Against SA-A?
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Synopsis
As Day 3 of the first unofficial test unfolds, can Rishabh Pant's stellar innings guide India A to victory against South Africa A? With the game finely balanced, the anticipation builds for an exciting Day 4 showdown at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Key Takeaways
- Rishabh Pant plays a crucial role with an unbeaten 64 runs.
- India A needs 156 runs to win with six wickets in hand.
- Tanush Kotian and Anshul Kamboj were instrumental in restricting South Africa A to 199 runs.
- The match remains finely balanced going into Day 4.
- India A's top-order batters need to perform in the final innings.
Bengaluru, Nov 1 (NationPress) - India A concluded Day 3 of the first unofficial test against South Africa A with a score of 119/4 in their final innings, showcasing a balanced competition between the two teams at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1. The innings started with an impressive performance from Rishabh Pant, who contributed a crucial half-century to steady the ship after an early scare.
As Day 3 commenced, Gurnoor Brar made an early impact for India A, putting pressure on the South African lineup in the first session. Just as the South African batters began to find their rhythm, Manav Suthar struck, allowing India A to maintain their momentum.
Tanush Kotian delivered a remarkable eight-over spell, capturing four wickets, while Anshul Kamboj claimed three as the Pant-led side restricted the visitors to 199 runs in their second innings. Consequently, India A set a target of 275 runs, with ample time remaining to chase it down.
However, the beginning of the final innings was challenging for India, with the top order struggling to make significant contributions. South African bowlers made early breakthroughs, dismissing India’s top three batters: Sai Sudharsan (12), Ayush Mhatre (6), and Devdutt Padikkal (5).
Tshepo Moreki initiated the downfall by sending Mhatre back to the pavilion, while Okuhle Cele celebrated by taking Padikkal’s wicket. With India in a precarious position at 25/2 within nine overs, the teams took Tea.
The final session of the day progressed slowly, with middle-order batsmen Pant and Rajat Patidar playing cautiously to preserve their wickets. The duo partnered for 87 runs off 148 balls before Tiaan van Vuuren claimed Patidar's wicket.
With Ayush Badoni just surviving a scare on the last delivery of the day, India ended the session at 94 runs for the loss of two wickets.
Heading into Day 4, India A requires 156 runs to secure victory with six wickets remaining, as Pant remains unbeaten on 64, alongside Badoni (0 not out).
Brief scores:
India A 234 & 119-4 in 39 overs (Rishabh Pant 64 not out, Rajat Patidar 28; Tshepo Moreki 2-12, Tiaan van Vuuren 1-20) trail South Africa A 309 & 199 all out in 48.1 overs (Lesego Senokwane 37, Zubayr Hamza 37; Tanush Kotian 4-26, Anshul Kamboj 3-39) by 156 runs.
Point of View
The match highlights the resilience of the young Indian squad. With Rishabh Pant leading from the front, India A has a fighting chance against a formidable South African side. This contest not only showcases the talent on display but also emphasizes the importance of nurturing future cricketing stars for national representation.
NationPress
04/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score at the end of Day 3?
India A finished Day 3 with a score of 119/4 in their final innings against South Africa A.
Who was the standout performer for India A?
Rishabh Pant was the standout performer, scoring an unbeaten 64 runs.
What is the target set for India A?
India A is chasing a target of 275 runs to win the match.
How many wickets does India A have left?
India A has six wickets remaining to chase down the target.
Who were the leading bowlers for South Africa A?
Tshepo Moreki and Tiaan van Vuuren were the leading bowlers for South Africa A.
