Dhruv Jurel’s Unbeaten Century Powers India A on Day 3 Against Australia A
In a thrilling display of batting prowess, Dhruv Jurel smashed an unbeaten century to keep India A in a strong position during the first unofficial Test against Australia A in Lucknow. On Day 3, the hosts reached 403/4 in 103 overs, trailing the visitors’ first innings total of 532 by 129 runs. With this solid foundation, India A looks set to push for a draw in the ongoing cricket match.
The day started with some rain interruptions, delaying the action until late. Openers N. Jagadeesan and Sai Sudharsan picked up from their overnight stand, adding 49 runs before Xavier Bartlett struck to remove Jagadeesan. Sudharsan, the talented Gujarat Titans player, then anchored the innings with a classy half-century in the second session, supported by Devdutt Padikkal.
Things heated up when Australia A’s all-rounder Cooper Connolly broke through in the 59th over, dismissing Sudharsan for 73. The real blow came soon after with skipper Shreyas Iyer’s early exit. Fresh off being overlooked for the Asia Cup, the Punjab Kings captain faced high expectations but managed just 8 runs off 13 balls, falling to Corey Rocchiccioli’s bowling.
Undeterred, Padikkal and wicketkeeper-batter Jurel steadied the ship. Jurel wasted no time, launching an aggressive knock that turned into a superb 113 not out by the end of the day. Their explosive 181-run partnership for the fifth wicket lifted India A’s spirits, with Padikkal unbeaten on 86. He’ll aim to convert it into a century when play resumes on Day 4.
Recapping Day 2, Australia A declared at 532/6 in 98 overs, thanks to centuries from Sam Konstas (109) and Josh Philippe (123*), plus solid knocks from Campbell Kellaway (88) and Connolly (70). India A’s bowlers Harsh Dubey (3/141) and Gurnoor Brar (2/87) tried hard but couldn’t contain the scoring.
Brief Scores:
Australia A 532/6 decl. in 98 overs (Sam Konstas 109, Josh Philippe 123, Campbell Kellaway 88, Cooper Connolly 70; Harsh Dubey 3-141, Gurnoor Brar 2-87).
India A 403/4 in 103 overs (Dhruv Jurel 113, Devdutt Padikkal 86*, Sai Sudharsan 73, Narayan Jagadeesan 64; Xavier Bartlett 1-60, Liam Scott 1-31). Australia A leads by 129 runs.
Cricket fans will be glued to the action as India A chases a competitive total in this key warmup series for upcoming international fixtures.
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