India A put themselves in a strong position in the first unofficial Test against New Zealand A after a solid batting effort on Day 3 in Lincoln on Monday. They reached 488 for 8 in their second innings, taking their overall lead to 284 runs before bad light brought an early end to the day's play.
Devdutt Padikkal led the recovery with a brilliant 199, missing out on a double century by just one run. Washington Sundar remained unbeaten on 51 as India A strengthened their position after being dismissed for just 113 in the first innings.
Padikkal's superb knock ended at 199 off 248 balls, including 24 fours and three sixes. He was given out caught behind off Zak Gibson while attempting to play a delivery down the leg side. The left-hander looked surprised by the decision and had to leave just one run short of a double century.
Rathod and Sundar keep the runs coming
Rathod made a valuable 66 off 72 balls, hitting eight fours. He helped India A extend their lead before falling to Foxcroft shortly after tea, caught behind by wicketkeeper Mitchell Hay.
Anshul Kamboj added 23 off 36 balls but was bowled by Jayden Lennox. Auqib Nabi then scored 38 off 63 deliveries, striking three fours and two sixes, before Clarke dismissed him.
Sundar stayed at the crease and reached his 13th first-class half-century. He was unbeaten on 51 off 75 balls, with six fours, at stumps. His contribution helped India A push their lead beyond 250 runs.
India A ended the day at 488 for 8 after 119 overs. Akash Deep was yet to score, while Mukesh Choudhary was still to bat.
Will India A declare on Day 4?
With a 284-run lead and two wickets remaining, India A must decide whether to declare early on Tuesday or add more runs before asking New Zealand A to bat again.
Rain is forecast for the fourth day, which could affect their plans. India A may want to leave enough time for their bowlers to take 10 wickets, but extending their lead would also give them greater control over the match.
New Zealand A were bowled out for 317 in their first innings, giving India A a 204-run advantage before the start of their second innings. The hosts now face a challenging task if they are to fight their way back into the contest.
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