Mukund, Rayudu hit half-centuries as India A take crucial lead over SA
KRISHNAGIRI (KERALA): A combined batting effort highlighted by opener Abhinav Mukund’s 72 and skipper Ambati Rayudu’s 71 ensured India A a vital 82-run first innings lead against South Africa A at stumps on Day 2 of the second and final four-day cricket match at the Krishnagiri Stadium here on Wednesday.
On the first day, Indian spinners bowled consistently to bundle out the visitors for a mere 260 in the first innings, thanks to a five-wicket haul by left-arm spinner Axar Patel.
In reply, Indian batsmen responded well as Ankush Bains (34 not out) and Patel (16 not out) remained unbeaten to help the hosts reach 342/6 at end of the second day’s play.
For South Africa A, right-arm spinner Dane Piedt (4/154) and pacer Lonwabo Tsotsobe (2/38) were the pick of the bowlers.
India A openers Mukund and Jiwanjot Singh (52) looked positive against a quality South Africa A bowling attack. The duo took time to settle down in the first 10 overs, but as they got used to the wicket they scored freely to take the score close to the 100-run mark.
Soon, experienced pacer Lonwabo Tsotsobe got the better off young Jiwanjot as the Indian was caught right after reaching his half-century to bring an end to the 96-run first wicket partnership. Incoming batsman Baba Aparajith, in his short innings of 34, played some impressive shots.
BRIEF SCORES South Africa A 260 vs
India A 342/6 (Abhinav Mukund 72, Ambati Rayudu 71; Dane Piedt 4/154, Lonwabo Tsotsobe 2/38).