Canterbury, England – India A have asserted their dominance in the first unofficial Test against England Lions at The Spitfire Ground, Canterbury, fueled by a magnificent double century from Karun Nair. As Day 2 drew to a close, India A declared their first innings at a formidable 557, leaving the England Lions with a massive task ahead.
Having won the toss and elected to field, the England Lions found themselves in a challenging position from the outset. While they managed to dismiss openers Abhimanyu Easwaran and Yashasvi Jaiswal early on Day 1, the partnership of Karun Nair and Sarfaraz Khan took control, with Sarfaraz narrowly missing a century, dismissed for 92. Dhruv Jurel also chipped in with a vital 94, ensuring India A built a strong foundation.
However, the undisputed star of the innings was Karun Nair. Resuming on Day 2 from his overnight score of 186*, Nair displayed exceptional temperament and skill, converting his century into a monumental double hundred (204 off 281 balls, including 26 fours and 1 six). His innings was a masterclass in patient accumulation, punishing loose deliveries while showing immense respect for the good ones.
The England Lions bowlers toiled hard, with Josh Hull and Zaman Akhter emerging as the pick of the bowlers, both finishing with three wickets apiece. Rehan Ahmed also contributed with a couple of wickets, including that of Anshul Kamboj, who had provided a late flourish for India A with 23.
In response, the England Lions started their innings cautiously, losing opener Ben McKinney for 16, bowled by the impressive Anshul Kamboj. However, Tom Haines (currently on 47*) and Emilio Gay (42*) showed resilience, building a solid second-wicket partnership and seeing their side to 111/1 at stumps on Day 2. They still trail India A by 446 runs, highlighting the uphill battle they face.
This two-match unofficial Test series serves as crucial preparation for both teams, with the senior England and India teams set to clash in a five-Test series later in June. Performances in these “A” games will undoubtedly be closely monitored by national selectors, with players vying for a spot in their respective senior squads.
The second unofficial Test is scheduled to begin on June 6th at the County Ground in Northampton. With India A holding a significant advantage in this match, the England Lions will be hoping for a stronger batting display to keep their hopes alive in the series.
