New Zealand A hangs on for draw after India A dominates first unofficial Test

Devdutt Padikkal was the standout performer for India A. | Photo Credit: R. RAGU

India A looked set for victory in the first unofficial Test against New Zealand A in Lincoln on Tuesday, but the host clung on for a nervous draw after bad light forced an early end to play on the fourth day.

Chasing 313, New Zealand A was precariously placed at 187 for nine when the umpires took the players off the field, with Curtis Heaphy unbeaten on 90 off 187 balls and Jayden Lennox on six off 24. The host still needed 126 runs to win, but the fading light denied India A a chance to take the final wicket.

India A had recovered from a disastrous first innings to put itself in a commanding position, thanks largely to Devdutt Padikkal’s magnificent 199 in the second essay. After being bowled out for 113 in its first innings, the visitor responded with 516, setting New Zealand A a challenging target.

Padikkal’s knock anchored the recovery, while half-centuries from B. Sai Sudharsan, Yash Rathod and Washington Sundar helped India A build a substantial lead.

Auqib Nabi was the pick of the Indian bowlers, claiming three for 69 in the first innings before adding three more wickets in the second. Anshul Kamboj also impressed with three wickets in the opening innings.

Both Indian openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and K.L. Rahul, endured disappointing outings with the bat and will look to make amends in the second unofficial Test, which begins in Christchurch on October 31.

Published on Oct 27, 2026

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