On Sunday, October 11, India A concluded their unofficial ODI series against Australia A in style, winning the third and final match by 49 runs after a hard-fought contest. Although the visiting team had already secured the series 2-1 by winning the first two matches, the hosts put up a spirited performance to prevent a clean sweep.
India A concluded their unofficial ODI series against Australia A in style
India A’s innings, as they batted first, saw its share of ups and downs. Openers Priyansh Arya (49) and Prabhsimran Singh (39) got off to a flying start, amassing 82 runs in the first 10 overs alone. However, the Australia A bowlers—particularly Ben Dwarshuis (3/38) and Will Sutherland (3/44)—staged a strong comeback and troubled the middle order, leaving India A reeling at 159/6.
A crucial 85-run partnership for the seventh wicket between Suryansh Shedge and Vipraj Nigam rescued the team from a precarious position. Shedge played a magnificent innings of 66 off 60 balls, featuring seven fours and two sixes, while Nigam played a gritty knock of 40 off 44 balls. Thanks to this counter-attack, India A managed to post a challenging total of 275 before being bowled out.
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In response, Australia A began their chase strongly. Opener Josh Philippe (56) and Liam Scott put together an 82-run partnership, placing the visitors in a commanding position. The match turned, however, when Nigam dismissed Philippe LBW. Just as Nathan McSweeney (39) was attempting to steady the innings, fast bowler Gurjapneet Singh dealt a crucial blow by dismissing him. The team faltered following McSweeney’s dismissal, with Australia A losing their last seven wickets for just 49 runs. Gurjapneet finished with figures of 3/56 as the Australia A side was bowled out for 226.
Nigam received the ‘Player of the Match’ award for his outstanding all-round performance, while McSweeney was named ‘Player of the Series’.
