Devdutt Padikkal produced a brilliant batting performance against New Zealand A in the first unofficial Test, helping India A recover from a difficult position and reduce the threat of defeat. His century on the third day gave the visitors a major boost in the four-day contest. Padikkal’s innings, combined with a crucial partnership with Sai Sudharsan, helped India A take the advantage. The left-handed batter also reached a major milestone by registering his 12th century in first-class cricket.


Six Takes Padikkal to His 12th First-Class Century

Padikkal completed his hundred in style, hitting a six off the 128th ball of his innings. The shot travelled beyond the boundary and reportedly landed among the trees outside the ground. The batter celebrated enthusiastically after reaching the milestone, capping a memorable innings under pressure. His century also made him the first batter to score a hundred in the ongoing match between India A and New Zealand A.


215-Run Partnership With Sai Sudharsan

One of the biggest highlights of Padikkal’s innings was his 215-run partnership with Sai Sudharsan for the third wicket. The pair spent 340 balls together at the crease, building a strong foundation for India A after the team had lost two wickets. Sudharsan contributed 91 runs, while Padikkal scored 118 during the partnership. Their stand helped stabilise the innings and shifted the pressure back onto the New Zealand A bowlers.


Padikkal Reaches 150 With a Boundary

Padikkal continued his attacking approach even after completing his century. He reached the 150-run mark with a four off the 204th ball of his innings. His ability to combine patience with aggressive stroke play helped India A strengthen its position in the match. The innings demonstrated his concentration and scoring ability, as he continued to punish loose deliveries while remaining focused on building a substantial total.


Chance to Surpass His Career-Best Score

Padikkal’s highest first-class score is 232, and his performance against New Zealand A gave him an opportunity to challenge that personal best. His growing innings put him in a strong position to produce another major score. The left-hander’s performance also underlined his ability to handle pressure in a longer format, where partnerships and time at the crease can prove decisive.


India A Gains Momentum in the Four-Day Match

Padikkal’s century and the partnership with Sudharsan helped India A recover from a difficult situation and gain an advantage on the third day. Their contributions strengthened the team’s position and eased concerns about a possible defeat. With Padikkal continuing to score freely, attention turned to how far he could extend his innings and whether India A could convert its improved position into a strong result against New Zealand A.