Jaiswal and Sudharsan steady India A on day three against New Zealand A

India A faced an uphill battle on Monday at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch during the second unofficial Test. New Zealand A's lower order frustrated the visiting attack, stretching their first-innings total to 424 all out and securing a 78-run lead, according to reports from Telangana Today and Sportstar. India A reached 32 for no loss in their second innings by stumps, reducing the overall deficit to 46 runs.

The morning session began with New Zealand A well-placed at 218/3. Mohammed Siraj struck with the very first delivery of the day, removing Matthew Boyle for 110 after Devdutt Padikkal claimed a sharp one-handed catch at slip to break a massive 208-run partnership. Siraj later struck again following the introduction of the second new ball, dismissing Dean Foxcroft for 93, just seven runs short of a century. Mukesh Kumar then accounted for wicketkeeper Mitchell Hay, who contributed 31 runs, leaving the hosts under pressure after a strong start.

Media additions

Despite the early breakthroughs, India A failed to finish the innings efficiently. A missed opportunity when R Smaran dropped Fraser Sheat off Akash Deep proved costly. Sheat capitalized on the reprieve to score 40, while Kristian Clarke added 41. Frustration deepened for the touring side as the final-wicket pair of Jayden Lennox and Jarrod McKay put on 55 runs. McKay remained composed for his 33 off 75 deliveries before Washington Sundar bowled him, finally bringing the innings to a close at 424.

Facing a deficit, India A had to negotiate 11 testing overs before the close of play. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had experienced a difficult run in earlier innings on the tour, displayed a more assured technique to finish unbeaten on 20, while B Sai Sudharsan remained firm on 11. The pair successfully saw out the remaining time against a disciplined New Zealand A attack, taking the team total to 32 without loss at stumps.

What to watch next

• India A will resume their second innings on the final day aiming to build a substantial total and establish a challenging target for the hosts.
• The opening partnership between Jaiswal and Sudharsan will need to continue neutralizing the New Zealand A bowling attack early in the session.
• India A bowlers will look to break through quickly should they manage to turn the current deficit into a defendable lead before the match concludes.