Overview
- Devdutt Padikkal made 199 but was adjudged caught behind one run short of a double century and could not review the decision because the unofficial Test had no DRS or snickometer.
- Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan put on 215 for the third wicket, and Padikkal added a further 142 with Yash Rathod to erase a 204-run first-innings deficit and restore India A’s position.
- Padikkal also took two maiden first-class wickets with part-time off-spin, dismissing Fraser Sheat and Zak Gibson during New Zealand A’s second innings.
- Poor light on the final day led umpires to stop fast bowling, which saw Mukesh Choudhary switch to left-arm spin and helped Curtis Heaphy bat through to secure a draw for New Zealand A.
- Beyond the match result, Padikkal’s form strengthens his case for the senior No.3 Test spot and highlights the selection value of these unofficial fixtures where lack of review tools can leave contentious calls final.