Yashasvi Jaiswal Slams Unbeaten 155 as India A Draw Second Unofficial Test Against New Zealand A

Jaiswal and Yash Rathod stitched together an unbeaten 247-run partnership to rescue India A after an early batting collapse and secure a draw on the final day.

Yashasvi Jaiswal produced a magnificent unbeaten 155, while Yash Rathod scored an equally impressive 100 not out as India A secured a draw against New Zealand A in the second unofficial Test. The duo delivered a remarkable batting performance, sharing an unbeaten 247-run partnership for the third wicket after India A had slipped to 35/2 early on the fourth and final day.

The match ended in a draw shortly after Tea when Rathod reached his 11th first-class century, with both teams shaking hands after four additional deliveries.

Rain and drizzle delayed the start of the final day's play, but New Zealand A made an immediate impact once the action resumed under overcast conditions. Jarrod McKay dismissed Sai Sudharsan in the opening over, with Tim Robinson taking a sharp catch at leg gully.

India A suffered another setback in the following over when Brett Randell bowled Devdutt Padikkal for a golden duck. Padikkal, who had scored 80 in the first innings, was beaten by a delivery that straightened after being bowled from around the wicket.

However, Jaiswal responded brilliantly, preventing New Zealand A from building further pressure. Coming into the contest after a series of modest performances, including a duck in the first innings, the left-handed batter showed excellent composure and attacking intent.

Rather than taking unnecessary risks, Jaiswal played with confidence, combining calculated aggression with disciplined shot selection. Rathod also joined the charge, and the pair steadily took control of the proceedings.

Their partnership helped India A overcome the 78-run first-innings deficit, with the visitors reaching that milestone in the 20th over. The scoring rate remained impressive as both batters continued to dominate the bowling attack.

New Zealand A were also hampered by injuries to two of their bowlers, with Fraser Sheat sidelined by a side strain and Jayden Lennox unable to bowl because of a hamstring injury. Their absence further reduced the visitors' bowling options.

Jaiswal took advantage of the situation, regularly using his feet against the spinners and attacking Dean Foxcroft with powerful shots. He also showcased his ability against the short ball, surviving a blow to the helmet from a McKay bouncer that required a concussion assessment.

The left-hander brought up his century in just 119 deliveries, finishing the milestone with a powerful slog-sweep for six over cow corner. He continued batting with authority to finish unbeaten on 155, while Rathod remained not out on 100.

The unbeaten partnership of 247 runs was the defining moment of the final day, ensuring India A avoided further damage after their early collapse.

Jaiswal's commanding innings will provide a significant confidence boost after his recent inconsistent performances, while Rathod's century further highlighted his growing credentials in first-class cricket.

Ultimately, the two batters displayed patience, resilience and attacking quality to ensure India A finished the second unofficial Test on a positive note, with the contest ending in a well-earned draw.