Devdutt Padikkal ended the selection debate surrounding India’s potential number three position for the upcoming Test series by playing a magnificent 199-run knock, helping India A complete a remarkable turnaround to reach 488 for 8 in their second innings against New Zealand A on Day 3.
Heading into the final day, India A hold a commanding 288-run lead, a dramatic recovery after being rolled over for 113 on the opening day and conceding a first-innings deficit of more than 200 runs.
Padikkal missed out on a deserved double century when he was given caught behind down the leg side off medium-pacer Zak Gibson. The left-hander appeared stunned by the umpire’s decision and gestured animatedly to indicate he had not made contact with the ball. Without the Decision Review System (DRS) or snickometer available to verify the call, he had no choice but to drag himself back to the pavilion.
Before his dismissal, Padikkal played a commanding 248-ball knock laced with 23 boundaries and three sixes.
Middle-order contributions take lead past 280
Padikkal had virtually cemented the number three spot after scoring consecutive Test centuries in Sri Lanka, but the team management wanted to evaluate a fit-again Sai Sudharsan ahead of the two-match series against New Zealand. Sudharsan also made a strong impression with a fluent 91, partnering Padikkal for a crucial 210-run stand for the third wicket.
While Sudharsan hit 12 boundaries in his 184-ball stay, Padikkal appeared far more in control with his shot selection and tempo. The surface flattened out significantly by the third day, providing lower bounce and minimal seam movement. Padikkal played the short ball effectively and stepped out against left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox, breaking his rhythm.
Following Sudharsan’s departure, Padikkal joined forces with Yash Rathod (66 off 72 balls) to add another 142 runs. Middle-order support continued as Washington Sundar (51 batting) forged a 41-run stand with Anshul Kamboj (23) and a 69-run partnership with Auqib Nabi (38) to extend India A’s lead.
Brief Scores:
India A 113 and 488/8 (Devdutt Padikkal 199, Sai Sudharsan 91, Yash Rathod 66, Washington Sundar 51).New Zealand A: 317.
(With inputs from agencies)
