How did Pant and Kamboj lead India 'A' to a thrilling 3-wicket victory over South Africa 'A' in the first unofficial Test?
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Synopsis
In a gripping showdown at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Rishabh Pant and Anshul Kamboj showcased their prowess, leading India A to a remarkable three-wicket victory against South Africa A. This match not only highlights their individual talents but also sets the stage for an exciting series ahead. Will India continue this momentum?
Key Takeaways
- Rishabh Pant played a pivotal role with his innings of 90.
- Anshul Kamboj provided crucial support towards the end with an unbeaten 37.
- Tanush Kotian excelled with the ball, taking four wickets.
- The match showcased the depth of talent in the Indian squad.
- India A leads the series 1-0 after this match.
Bengaluru, Nov 2 (NationPress) Rishabh Pant’s stellar knock of 90 runs and Anshul Kamboj’s late flourish of an unbeaten 37 propelled India A to a confident three-wicket victory over South Africa A in the inaugural unofficial Test held at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1 on Sunday.
Chasing a target of 275 runs in the final innings, the Indian captain, Rishabh Pant, along with the lower-order batsmen, displayed remarkable skill under pressure, securing a win that puts them ahead in the two-match series at 1-0.
In the first innings, South Africa A batted first and scored 309 runs in 91.2 overs before the Indian bowlers took charge. A trio of batsmen, Jordan Hermann, Zubayr Hamza, and Rubin Hermann, made significant contributions with half-centuries, while Tiaan van Vuuren added a solid 46. Tanush Kotian emerged as the star bowler for India, claiming four wickets.
In response, India was bowled out for 234 runs in just 58 overs, with Prenelan Subrayen taking five wickets, giving the visitors a 75-run lead. However, South Africa A was unable to build on their advantage, only managing an additional 199 runs to set the hosts a target of 275.
India’s chase began poorly as the top order, including Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Mhatre, and Devdutt Padikkal, fell quickly. Nevertheless, Pant steadied the innings with a commendable 90 off 113 balls. Alongside Ayush Badoni, they formed a solid partnership to start Day 4 before Pant’s dismissal.
Despite the loss of Pant and Badoni, lower-order batsmen Tanush Kotian, Manav Suthar, and Kamboj rallied to secure victory. Kotian contributed a brisk 23 runs off 30 balls, while Kamboj dazzled with an unbeaten 37, including four fours and two sixes. Suthar provided crucial support as India completed the chase in 73.1 overs.
Final Scores: India A 234 & 277-7 in 73.1 overs (Rishabh Pant 90, Anshul Kamboj 37; Tiaan van Vuuren 3-56, Tshepo Moreki 2-33) defeated 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 three wickets.
Point of View
The win by India A encapsulates the resilience and talent present in the team. Rishabh Pant's leadership and the collective effort of the lower-order batsmen demonstrate a promising future for Indian cricket, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure. This victory not only boosts morale but also sets a competitive tone for the upcoming matches.
NationPress
03/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
India A scored 277-7 in 73.1 overs, chasing down the target set by South Africa A.
Who were the standout players in the match?
Rishabh Pant scored 90 runs, while Anshul Kamboj contributed an unbeaten 37 runs, guiding the team to victory.
What was South Africa A's first innings score?
South Africa A scored 309 runs in their first innings.
How did India A fare in their first innings?
India A was bowled out for 234 runs in their first innings.
What does this victory mean for India A in the series?
With this win, India A takes a 1-0 lead in the two-match series against South Africa A.
