India A and New Zealand A drew the first unofficial Test at Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln after India A recovered from a first innings total of 113 all out to post 516 in their second innings.India A struggled early, dismissing for just 113 runs, with Yash Rathod top-scoring with an unbeaten 44 off 49 balls. Devdutt Padikkal contributed 32 runs from 77 deliveries. Simon Keene took five wickets for New Zealand in the first innings.New Zealand A replied with 317 runs, led by Rhys Mariu’s 76 off 137 balls and Dean Foxcroft’s 51 from 79 deliveries. Curtis Heaphy added 44 runs off 134 balls as the hosts took a substantial first-innings lead.In the second innings, India A mounted a strong comeback, scoring 516 all out. Padikkal narrowly missed a double century, making 199 runs from 248 balls including 24 fours and three sixes. Sai Sudharsan supported with 91 runs off 184 deliveries, while Rathod contributed 66 from 72 balls. Washington Sundar added 52 runs off 80 balls, applying pressure on the New Zealand bowlers.Chasing a target, New Zealand A were 187 for nine when the match ended, with Curtis Heaphy unbeaten on 90 off 187 balls. Dean Foxcroft scored 42 off 67 deliveries. New Zealand’s momentum waned against the Indian bowling attack, among which Auqib Nabi stood out, taking six wickets in the match, including three in each innings.Despite India A’s significant recovery and Padikkal’s exceptional innings, New Zealand A’s steadfast resistance ensured the match concluded in a draw.
Padikkal scores 199 as India A fight back to draw with New Zealand A
