Pulsating India ‘A’ Push Through

The fourth day of the match between India A and New Zealand A was eventually to belong to the Indians, as they scrapped their way to a tight three-wicket win against tough opposition.

The match thus far had seen New Zealand rack up an impressive 332, with captain Craig McMillian flaunting a classy hundred for his troubles.

When India struggled to just 280 in reply, the stage was set for New Zealand to inflict the decisive blow with a massive second innings.

However, it was not to be, as Robin Singh ripped through the New Zealanders with a deadly spell of 4-33 from 18 tight overs.

With India A going into the final day at 0-1 requiring 206 to win, anything was possible.

If the first hour was any indication, the match was certain to go New Zealand’s way. Pujara ran himself out, Dhawan was leg-before-wicket to spinner Jeetan Patel, whilst the pacemen took care of Uthappa and captain Partiv Patel. India A were 4-44, and things were not looking good.

However Cue Subramaniam Badrinath was able to find able allies in Tejinder Pal Singh, Piyush Chawla and Sodhi and he managed to bat right through from the aforementioned breaking point to the completion of the win.

At all times he was alert, upright and just outstanding as he marshalled the lower order, knowing when to scamper singles and when to lash out ? something which was very important when facing the impressive Patel or tight Mark Orchard.

Badrinath was not out on 70, and India A reached their target of 206 seven wickets down, completing a very rewarding win.

New Zealand A 1st innings 332
Craig McMillan 108, Matthew Sinclair 76, Michael Papps 69
Piyush Chawla 5/86 (39.4)

India A 1st innings 280
TP Singh 85, Sharma 57, Badrinath 55
Patel 4/68 (17), Orchard 3/38 (15)

New Zealand A 2nd innings 153
Rob Nicol 55
RP Singh 4/33 (18), Pujara 2/16 (6)

India A 2nd innings ? 209-7
Badrinath 70*, TP Singh 46, Piyush Chawla 26*
Patel 3/46 (20)

India A won by 3 wickets

CricketWeb Man of the Match
Tie: Patel – 4/68 and 3/46 and Badrinath 55 and 70*