Did Padikkal’s 150 and Jurel’s 140 lead to a draw for India A against Australia A in Lucknow?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling clash in Lucknow, Devdutt Padikkal's spectacular 150 and Dhruv Jurel's impressive 140 helped India A draw against Australia A. The match, marred by rain, showcased outstanding batting performances from both teams, leaving fans eager for the next encounter.
Key Takeaways
- Padikkal's 150 was a standout contribution.
- Jurel's 140 showcased India's batting depth.
- The match highlighted the challenges of playing in changing weather conditions.
- Both teams demonstrated exceptional batting skills.
- The partnership between Padikkal and Jurel was crucial for India A’s performance.
Lucknow, Sep 19 (NationPress) Devdutt Padikkal delivered an outstanding performance with a remarkable 150, bringing India A tantalizingly close to Australia A’s first-innings score of 532. However, relentless rain on the concluding day resulted in the first unofficial Test between the two teams finishing in a draw at BRSABV, Lucknow, on Friday.
In a match characterized by heavy batting, both teams showcased their strength with a total of four centuries. Australia A set the tone with centuries from Josh Philippe (123) and Sam Konstas (109), leading them to a first-innings total of 532/6d. In response, India A began positively with a solid start from Abhimanyu Easwaran, N. Jagadeesan, and Sai Sudharsan, who all scored half-centuries. However, a minor collapse at 222/4 put their progress at risk until Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel took control.
The pair formed a formidable partnership worth 228 runs, with Jurel scoring a swift 140 off 197 balls, while Padikkal anchored the innings. Even after Jurel's dismissal on the last day, Padikkal maintained his composure, reaching 150 before rain curtailed any chance of a result. India eventually declared at 531/7d, just one run short of Australia A's total.
Subsequently, the Australian openers, Sam Konstas and Campbell Kellaway, added an unbroken 56-run partnership in 16 overs, complementing their first-innings partnership of 198, before the match was called off.
For Australia A, offspinners Corey Rocchiccioli and Todd Murphy handled the bulk of the bowling duties, with Rocchiccioli being the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 159 runs in 36.1 overs, including the crucial wickets of Padikkal, Shreyas Iyer, and Kotian.
Reflecting on the rain-affected match, Rocchiccioli stated, “Regrettably, the rain likely hindered our efforts over the four days. Without the rain, we might have secured a result. However, this experience has been invaluable for our selected group. Some players have played here for the first time in a while, enhancing their understanding of the game and preparing us for future challenges.”
On his dismissal of Iyer, Rocchiccioli remarked, “There wasn’t a specific plan; my goal was to hit the stumps. I didn’t bowl my best leading up to that moment, but fortunately, one spun and hit his pad. Iyer is a significant player we focused on during our preparations.”
The second unofficial Test is scheduled to take place in Lucknow, commencing on September 23.
Brief scores:
Australia A 532/6 decl & 56 for no loss in 16 overs (Sam Konstas 27 not out, Campbell Kellaway 24 not out) drew with India A 531/7 decl in 98 overs (Devdutt Padikkal 150, Dhruv Jurel 140; Corey Rocchiccioli 3-159, Liam Scott 1-31)
Point of View
This match served as a platform for emerging talents to shine. Despite the rain, the performances of Padikkal and Jurel highlight the depth of cricketing talent in India. As we approach the second Test, the focus remains on how these players can leverage this experience to enhance their game.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the match between India A and Australia A?
The match ended in a draw due to persistent rain on the final day.
Who were the standout players in the match?
Devdutt Padikkal scored 150 runs, and Dhruv Jurel contributed 140 runs.
When is the second unofficial Test scheduled?
The second unofficial Test is set to begin on September 23.
What was Australia's first innings score?
Australia A scored 532 runs in their first innings.
How did rain affect the match?
Rain disrupted play and ultimately led to the match being drawn.
