On Friday, October 3, Australia-A bounced back strongly with a 9-wicket victory over India-A in the second unofficial ODI, leveling the series at 1-1. Despite Tilak Varma’s heroic 94-run innings, the rain-hit encounter swung in Australia’s favor as they cruised to the revised target under the DLS method.
Match Summary
| Team | Innings Score | Key Performers |
|---|---|---|
| India-A | 246 all out (50 overs) | Tilak Varma – 94 (122), Riyan Parag – 58 |
| Australia-A | 160/1 (16.4 overs, target under DLS) | Mckenzie Harvey – 70* (49), Cooper Connolly – 50 (31), Fraser-McGurk – 36 (20) |
Tilak Varma shines with a fighting 94
India-A’s innings got off to a rocky start, slipping to 17 for 3 after early dismissals. Skipper shreyas iyer, who had scored a century in the first match, failed to replicate his form. But Tilak Varma held the innings together with immense maturity. Facing 122 balls, he displayed composure and resilience in tough conditions.
Tilak forged a 101-run partnership with Riyan Parag (58 runs), giving India some stability. Later, he added crucial runs with Ravi Bishnoi (34 runs) and Arshdeep Singh (28 runs). However, he eventually fell as the last recognized batter, leaving India-A at a modest 246.
Australia-A dominates the chase
Rain interrupted the match for over three hours, and under the DLS method, Australia was given a revised target of 160 runs in 25 overs. Before the rain break, they had already reached 48/0 in just 5.5 overs.
After play resumed, batting became easier. Cooper Connolly smashed a quickfire 50 off 31 balls, while Mckenzie Harvey anchored the chase with an unbeaten 70 off 49 balls. Jake Fraser-McGurk set the tone early with an explosive 36 off 20 balls. Australia-A easily crossed the target in just 16.4 overs, finishing at 160/1.
India’s bowlers struggle
India-A’s bowlers were taken apart by the Australian batters. Arshdeep Singh proved expensive, conceding 44 runs in just 4 overs. In total, the Australians struck 22 boundaries and 6 sixes, leaving little room for recovery for the Indian bowlers.
Series Decider on October 5
The thrilling series now stands level at 1-1. With both teams having showcased moments of brilliance, all eyes are set on the decider scheduled for Sunday, October 5. Fans can expect a fiercely contested battle as India-A looks to bounce back and Australia-A aims to carry forward its momentum.
Key Highlights
- Tilak Varma scored a gritty 94 off 122 balls, saving India’s innings.
- Riyan Parag added a valuable 58 runs in partnership with Tilak.
- Australia chased 160 in just 16.4 overs, winning by 9 wickets.
- Harvey (70*) and Connolly (50) led the chase with explosive batting.
- The series decider will take place on October 5.
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