Sai Sudharsan scored a scintillating century as India A have built a strong position on the opening day of the first Unofficial Test against Sri Lanka A at the Galle International Stadium.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, the visitors reached 333 for 4 in 86 overs when stumps were drawn on Thursday.
Sai Sudharsan was the standout performer, as he scored a composed 132 off 175 balls. The left-hander struck 19 boundaries and provided the innings with stability through testing periods. Ayush Pandey made 25, Devdutt Padikkal scored a brisk 12, and Ruturaj Gaikwad contributed 22 runs, but it was Sudharsan who held the entire India A innings together.
Sudharsan's dismissal at 217 for 4 shortly before tea handed the responsibility to the middle
order. Captain Dhruv Jurel and Shaik Rasheed have since forged an unbroken 116-run partnership for the fifth wicket at the end of day's play. Jurel has remained unbeaten on 68 off 138 balls, while Rasheed has notched an unbeaten 53 off 92 deliveries. Their patient and disciplined batting in the final session has helped India A to put up a big total.
Sri Lanka A's bowlers have toiled diligently on a slow-turning surface. Dilum Sudeera has claimed two wickets for 98 runs in 29 overs, accounting for both openers. Ravindu Fernando picked up one wicket for 87, and Chamika Gunasekara took the wicket of Sudharsan. The home side's attack has shown discipline but has struggled to create regular breakthroughs.
India A have established a commanding platform heading into the second day. With two well-set batters at the crease and a long batting line-up still to follow, the visitors are expected to push for a total in excess of 500. Sri Lanka A will need to strike early with the second new ball on Friday morning to restrict the visitors and keep themselves in the contest on a pitch that is likely to assist spinners as the game progresses.
