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The second day of the India A tour of Australia saw a dramatic turnaround in fortunes for the visitors. After a disappointing batting performance on Day 1, India A bounced back with a strong bowling display and a solid batting partnership. The key player in the day's events was Mukesh Kumar, who delivered a stunning six-wicket haul to dismantle the Australian A batting lineup.
Australia A, resuming their innings at 99 for 4, were unable to build on their overnight score. Connolly looked in good form initially, but fell victim to a well-placed delivery from Mukesh. Phillippe followed suit in the next over, and McSweeney's stay at the crease was brought to an end by Nitish Reddy. Despite a dogged innings by Murphy, Australia A were ultimately bowled out for 195, with Mukesh taking the remarkable figures of 6 for 46.
India A, needing to recover from a first-innings deficit, began their second innings poorly, losing both openers cheaply. However, the experienced duo of Sudharsan and Padikkal took control of the situation. The pair showcased resilience and patience, frustrating the Australian bowlers with their measured approach. Their 178-run partnership, unbroken at the end of the day, steered India A to a commanding position. Sudharsan, who faced 185 balls for his 96, and Padikkal, who scored 80 off 167 balls, provided a solid foundation for their team. At stumps, India A were 208 for 2, enjoying a lead of 120 runs over their opponents.
The match is shaping up to be a tense encounter, with India A in the driver's seat after their dominant performance on Day 2. The visitors will be looking to build on this advantage and secure a victory in the match. The Australian A bowlers will need to find a way to break the partnership between Sudharsan and Padikkal if they are to have any chance of salvaging the game.
Source: Mukesh Kumar's six-fer, Padikkal-Sudharsan stand put India A on top