Krishnagiri, India: Axar Patel struck an unbeaten 69 as India A took a vital 157-run first innings lead against South Africa A at stumps, though rain played spoilsport on day three of the second and final four-day match at the Krishnagiri Stadium here on Thursday.
Tail-enders Patel and Karn Sharma (19 not out) remained unbeaten at stumps after adding crucial runs on a rain-marred day, as India ended at 417 for 8 in reply to South Africa A’s first innings score of 260.
Only 22 overs were bowled on Thursday as the players had to leave the field many times due to the showers.
India A resumed at 342 for 6 after two hours of morning showers. Overnight batsmen Ankush Bains (35) and Patel came in to bat to make sure the hosts extended their lead as much as possible. But, in the second over, pacer Hardus Viljoen got the wicket of Bains.
India A received a second blow when incoming batsman Jayant Yadav was clean bowled by right-arm spinner Dane Piedt for a duck with the score on 348.
Incoming batsmen Karn gave good support to Patel as the duo held the innings together on a wet pitch to take the team’s score past the 400-run mark. The two were involved in an unbeaten 69-run partnership for the ninth wicket to end the day with a handsome lead for the hosts.
