India A faced significant pressure on Day 2 of the second unofficial Test against Australia A at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, as they struggled to overcome a first-innings deficit of 62 runs. After a dismal start to their second innings, India A ended the day at 73/5, holding a slender lead of just 11 runs over the hosts. The team’s position looks precarious, with the top-order batsmen failing to deliver against a determined Australian attack.
Australia A resumed their innings on Day 2 with a steady position of 53/2. Marcus Harris, who had anchored their innings, continued his fine form with a patient 74 runs, anchoring the Australian effort through multiple rain delays that interrupted play. The Indian bowlers fought hard, with Prasidh Krishna and Mukesh Kumar providing crucial breakthroughs. Prasidh’s sharp bowling earned him four wickets, including the important scalps of Harris and Scott Boland on consecutive deliveries. Mukesh was equally effective, picking up three wickets, including a stunning low catch at slip by KL Rahul to dismiss Beau Webster. These efforts helped India A restrict Australia A to 223 runs in their second innings, leaving India A to chase a 62-run deficit.
In their second innings, India A's top order faltered badly. KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran, tasked with building a solid foundation, failed to get going. Easwaran edged to gully off McAndrew for 17, while Rahul was bowled out in an unusual manner by Corey Rocchiccioli, with the ball rolling onto his stumps. Sai Sudharsan, who had impressed in earlier matches, managed only three runs before he was caught off Beau Webster. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, who had shown promise in earlier innings, was trapped lbw by McAndrew for just 11 runs.
By the end of the day’s play, India A were struggling at 73/5, with only Dhruv Jurel offering some resistance, as he remained unbeaten on 16. Jurel’s ability to hold the innings together was crucial, having played a fighting knock of 80 runs in the first innings. His role will be pivotal on Day 3 as India A looks to avoid a total collapse and fight back in the match.
With the rain interruptions and India A’s faltering batting, the third day promises to be crucial. India A’s hopes rest largely on Jurel and the lower-order batsmen, who will need to dig deep to protect the team’s slim advantage and set up a competitive total. The match remains in the balance, and a strong effort is required if India A is to avoid defeat in this challenging contest.
