Image Credit: BCCI
India A vs England Lions: Day 2 Ends with Hosts Trailing by 156 Runs
Day 2 of the second Unofficial Test between India A and England Lions in Northampton ended with the hosts reaching 192 for 3 in 46 overs, still trailing India A by 156 runs. Despite interruptions due to poor light, the contest remains delicately poised as both teams head into a crucial third day.
India A Posts Competitive 348 After KL Rahul’s Century
India A resumed their innings at 319 for 7 in the morning session. KL Rahul, who anchored the innings with a classy 116 off 182 balls, fell shortly after the resumption. His knock featured elegant strokeplay and precise footwork, reinforcing his fitness and temperament ahead of a potential Test recall. Dhruv Jurel provided vital lower-order resistance with a composed 52 before India A were bowled out for 348.
Chris Woakes, on comeback duty, emerged as the pick of the bowlers for England Lions with 3 for 60 in 18 overs. He bowled with control and movement, exploiting the morning conditions. Tom Lawes and Matthew Potts chipped in with two wickets each, helping restrict India A from breaching the 400-mark despite a strong foundation.
England Lions’ Top Order Shows Grit
In response, England Lions adopted a patient approach. Ben McKinney and Tom Haines stitched a solid opening stand of 43 before McKinney was trapped in front by Anshul Kamboj for 21. Haines continued steadily, reaching a fluent half-century (54 off 82) before being undone by Tushar Deshpande with a well-directed short ball.
Emilio Gay emerged as the standout for the Lions in the second session. His 71 came off 108 deliveries and included a mix of attacking shots and calm defense, showcasing his maturity at the crease. However, just as he looked set for a big score, he was adjudged leg-before to Tanush Kotian in the final session.
At stumps, Jordan Cox held firm at 31 not out, while James Rew had yet to open his account. With seven wickets in hand and an in-form batting lineup, England Lions will look to reduce the deficit and push ahead on Day 3.
India A’s Bowling Assessment
India A used six bowlers during the day, with spinners Tanush Kotian and Pulkit Narang getting decent turn on a wearing Northampton surface. Deshpande bowled with aggression, while Anshul Kamboj got the early breakthrough. The bowlers kept a tight lid on scoring, maintaining pressure even as partnerships developed.
India A’s fielding was tidy, though a missed chance during Emilio Gay’s innings could prove costly if the Lions build momentum on Day 3. KL Rahul also took the gloves for a few overs as Jurel briefly left the field, indicating flexibility in his readiness across roles.
What to Expect on Day 3
With England Lions still 156 runs behind, Day 3 could define the course of the match. A solid morning session could tilt the momentum toward the hosts, but early wickets for India A may open the door for a first-innings lead. Given the pitch is beginning to slow down and offer some grip, spin may play a larger role as the match progresses.
