Sai Sudharsan made a confident return from injury with a half-century, while Kumar Kushagra and Tanush Kotian also struck valuable fifties as India A recovered from early setbacks to finish the opening day of their first four-day match against Australia A at 257 for five on Tuesday.
Sudharsan, returning after more than a month on the sidelines, scored a patient 57 off 103 balls to provide stability at the top of the order. His return came as a positive development for the India A side ahead of a demanding red-ball assignment.
Kushagra played a determined knock of 82 off 160 balls, while Kotian remained unbeaten on 68 off 134 balls at stumps. The pair stitched together a crucial 138-run partnership for the sixth wicket, helping India A recover after losing early wickets.
Shams Mulani was unbeaten on 10 off 43 balls alongside Kotian when play ended for the day.
India A's middle order absorbed pressure effectively as the hosts looked to build a substantial first-innings total. Kotian's unbeaten knock and his partnership with Kushagra ensured India A ended the opening day in a more secure position after the early setbacks.
The four-day contest provides valuable red-ball exposure to players looking to strengthen their claims for higher honours, with India A aiming to build on their solid recovery when play resumes.
