The second unofficial Test between India A and Australia A kicked off in Lucknow with all the drama and fluctuating fortunes one could hope for on an opening day. By Stumps, Australia A had posted a respectable 350/9, a score testament to both some aggressive batting and a gritty lower-order fightback. Yet, the day truly belonged to India A`s left-arm spinner, **Manav Suthar**, who carved out a magnificent five-wicket haul, keeping the visitors on their toes throughout.
An Unsteady Start for the Aussies
Having won the toss and elected to bat, Australia A`s innings began with a touch of caution, which soon turned into concern. Opening batter Campbell Kellaway departed early for a mere 9, caught expertly by Sai Sudharsan off Prasidh Krishna`s pace. Sam Konstas, however, showed glimpses of promise, crafting a steady 49 before Mohammed Siraj found his edge, sending him back to the pavilion.
The middle order struggled to build significant partnerships. Skipper **Nathan McSweeney** anchored one end, but the departures of Oliver Peake and Cooper Connolly in quick succession, both falling to Suthar`s burgeoning spin, left Australia A precariously placed at 150/4. It appeared the Indian A bowlers were finding their rhythm, tightening their grip on the proceedings.
McSweeney`s Anchor and Suthar`s Ascendancy
McSweeney, demonstrating leadership with the bat, combined with Josh Philippe to stitch together a crucial half-century stand, momentarily steadying the ship. His 74-run innings was a blend of patience and judicious strokeplay, a true captain`s knock in challenging circumstances. However, his dismissal to Gurnoor Brar, followed swiftly by Philippe becoming Suthar`s third victim, threatened to unravel Australia A`s efforts entirely. At this point, the scoreboard read a worrying 214/6, and the momentum seemed firmly with India A.
Cricket, much like life, often reserves its most surprising turns for when things seem most predictable.
Edwards` Blitzkrieg and the Lower-Order Fight
Just when India A believed they were on the cusp of an early wrap-up, **Jack Edwards** had other ideas. The aggressive batter launched a spirited counter-attack, injecting much-needed impetus into the innings. His entertaining 88 runs came off just 78 balls, featuring 11 fours and a six – a clear statement of intent. Edwards’ proactive approach not only stemmed the flow of wickets but actively pushed the score upwards, frustrating the Indian bowlers who had, minutes earlier, seemed invincible.
He found excellent support from the lower order, particularly from Todd Murphy, in a resilient 55-run ninth-wicket partnership. This late surge allowed Australia A to push past the 300-run mark, transforming a potentially mediocre total into a competitive one. While Edwards unfortunately missed out on a century, falling to Brar, his innings was pivotal. Murphy and Henry Thornton then added an unbroken 21-run stand, ensuring Australia A ended Day 1 on a high note, reaching 350/9.
Suthar`s Shining Moment
Despite the Australian fightback, Manav Suthar`s performance was the standout. His consistent accuracy and ability to trouble the batters earned him a well-deserved fifer (5/93 from 28 overs). He added the wickets of Will Sutherland and Corey Rocchiccioli during the lower-order resistance, completing a memorable day for the young spinner. His spell will undoubtedly be a key talking point heading into Day 2.
As the sun set on Day 1 in Lucknow, both teams had reasons to be satisfied, yet aware of the work still ahead. Australia A`s resilience ensured a respectable total, but Suthar`s heroics kept India A firmly in contention. Day 2 promises another fascinating chapter in this unofficial Test battle.
Brief Scores:
- Australia A: 350/9 (Jack Edwards 88, Nathan McSweeney 74, Sam Konstas 40; Manav Suthar 5-93, Gurnoor Brar 2-71) vs India A.
