South Africa A Crush India A: Pretorius, Moonsamy Dominate With Centuries in 3rd Unofficial ODI

South Africa A clinched a commanding 73-run victory over India A in the third and final unofficial ODI at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on Wednesday, securing a consolation win after India A had already sealed the series 2-1. Powered by a record-breaking 243-run opening partnership between Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Rivaldo Moonsamy, the visitors posted an imposing 325 for 6 after being asked to bat first by India A captain Tilak Varma.

Pretorius struck a stylish 123 off 126 balls, while Moonsamy converted his maiden List A hundred into 107 from 119 deliveries, laying a solid foundation that proved too steep for the hosts. Useful late cameos from Delano Potgieter and Dean Forrester propelled South Africa A past the 300-run mark, setting India A a daunting target of 326 on a batting-friendly surface.

In reply, India A never recovered from early losses and was eventually bowled out for 252 in 46.3 overs. Ayush Badoni (66) and Ishan Kishan (53) offered resistance with a fighting 88-run stand for the fifth wicket, briefly raising hopes of a successful chase. However, their dismissals in quick succession triggered a collapse, as the middle and lower order failed to cope with disciplined South African bowling under pressure.

Also Read: South Africa A Chase 417 To Draw Series 1-1 Against India A

Despite the defeat, India A took the three-match series 2-1, underlining their overall dominance in the tour. The victory provided South Africa A a morale-boosting finish ahead of their domestic season, while several Indian players will look to carry forward valuable learnings into upcoming senior international assignments.

Also Read: Dhruv Jurel Stands Tall With 132* As India A Recover To 255