Captain Rishabh Pant played a fighting knock to keep India A in the hunt against South Africa A on the penultimate day of the four-day match. His unbeaten half-century steadied the innings after early setbacks, guiding the team to 119/4, still needing 166 runs to chase down the 275-run target.
Pant Leads the Resistance
Pant’s innings (64* off 81 balls, 8 fours, 2 sixes) was a blend of grit, aggression, and composure. Coming in when India A were struggling at 32/3, he formed a crucial 77-run stand with Rajat Patidar (28) to restore stability. Despite being dropped on 46, Pant capitalized, bringing up his fifty off 65 balls with a trademark cover drive.
At stumps, Pant remained unbeaten with Ayush Badoni (0) at the other end, keeping India A’s chase alive heading into the final day.
Top-Order Collapse
India’s top order faltered early as Ayush Mhatre, Sai Sudharsan, and Devdutt Padikkal fell cheaply.
- Mhatre chopped on against Tshepo Moreki.
- Sudharsan was trapped LBW by the same bowler after a long struggle.
- Padikkal’s defense was breached by Okuhle Cele.
Patidar battled hard before nicking one to the keeper off Tiaan Van Vuuren, leaving Pant visibly frustrated.
India A Bowlers Shine Earlier
Earlier in the day, India’s bowlers impressed as South Africa A were bowled out for 199 in their second innings after resuming at 30/0.
- Tanush Kotian starred with 4/26.
- Anshul Kamboj supported well with 3/39.
South Africa’s batters threw away starts with needless aggression, slipping to 128/6 before a late lower-order rally stretched their lead to 275.
Final Day Set for a Thrilling Finish
With 166 runs still required and six wickets in hand, all eyes will be on Pant to finish what he started. His counterattacking approach has kept India A alive, but he’ll need support from the lower order to seal a memorable chase.
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