India A Secures Draw Against Australia A in Thrilling Finale

In a gripping conclusion to their four-day match, India A managed to draw against Australia A, thanks to a resilient eighth-wicket partnership between Yash Rathod and Shams Mulani. Despite a challenging target of 365 runs, India A's lower order held firm, securing a draw and clinching the series 1-0. Key contributions from Tushar Deshpande and the determined efforts of Rathod and Mulani were pivotal in this thrilling encounter. Sam Harper was named Player of the Match, while Mulani earned the Player of the Series title.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 2, 2026, 21:56 IST

India A's Resilient Performance

Yash Rathod and Shams Mulani showcased remarkable resilience, forming a crucial partnership of over 36 overs for the eighth wicket, as India A managed to secure a thrilling draw against Australia A on the final day of their second four-day match in Puducherry on Friday.

This result allowed India A to win the two-match series 1-0, following a commanding 162-run victory in the first match.

Chasing a Challenging Target

In pursuit of 365 runs, India A began the day at 28/1 but quickly found themselves in trouble at 199/7 after 60.2 overs. However, a determined effort from the lower order helped them finish the day at 310/9, ensuring a hard-fought draw.

Key Contributions from Rathod and Mulani

Rathod scored 80 runs off 138 balls, while Mulani contributed 29 runs off 131 balls, forming an essential 85-run partnership for the eighth wicket. They faced 16 overs with the second new ball, frustrating the Australian bowlers and keeping India A's hopes alive.

With only seven overs left, Australia A's Liam Scott, who took 5 wickets for 37 runs, ended the partnership by trapping Rathod leg before wicket. Shortly after, he dismissed Mulani, leaving the last pair of Nachiket Bhute and Praful Hinge to survive three overs. Bhute, who remained unbeaten on 20, and Hinge, who did not score, held their ground to secure the draw.

Deshpande's Vital Contribution

Earlier in the match, Tushar Deshpande played a significant role, scoring 52 runs off 119 balls, which helped India A remain competitive. He formed a 60-run partnership for the third wicket with captain Devdutt Padikkal, who added 26 runs, as India A reached 99/2 by lunch.

The duo added 71 runs in the morning session, with Aayush Pandey, who scored 19, being the only wicket to fall during that period.

However, the situation deteriorated for India A in the second session as they lost five wickets, slipping to 205/7 at tea. Scott's breakthrough came when he dismissed Padikkal, who edged the ball to wicketkeeper Josh Philippe. Deshpande was then caught out after mis-timing a drive off Liam Hatcher.

Match and Series Recognition

Sam Harper was awarded Player of the Match, while Shams Mulani received the Player of the Series accolade.