Fri Nov 01 11:09:50 UTC 2024: ## India A Dominate Day 2 in Mackay, Take Control Against Australia A
**Mackay, November 1:** India A took control of the unofficial Test against Australia A on Day 2 in Mackay, securing a 120-run lead at the end of play. A magnificent 178-run stand between Sai Sudharsan (96*) and Devdutt Padikkal (80) formed the backbone of India A’s dominant performance.
The day began with India A needing to overcome a first innings deficit of 88 runs. Mukesh Kumar delivered a brilliant spell, picking up 6 wickets for 46 runs in 18.5 overs, to skittle out Australia A for 195 runs. He was ably supported by Prasidh Krishna (3 wickets) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (1 wicket). Mukesh was particularly effective in dismantling Australia A’s lower order, breaking crucial partnerships and ending their resistance.
India A’s chase began poorly, with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad failing again, dismissed for just 5 runs after a duck in the first innings. Abhimanyu Easwaran’s run-out left India A at 30 for 2. However, the partnership between Sudharsan and Padikkal turned the tide completely.
Sudharsan, unbeaten on 96, batted with remarkable composure, facing 185 balls and hitting 9 boundaries. Padikkal, on 80 from 167 balls, played with equal determination, striking 5 fours. Their resilient partnership not only stabilized the innings but built a commanding lead for India A.
The visitors will be confident of securing a victory in this unofficial Test, with a strong platform to build upon in the remaining days of the match.
First Piper 