In a dramatic turn of events on Day 3 of the first unofficial Test in Bengaluru, India A orchestrated a stunning collapse, reducing South Africa A from a promising 30/0 to a precarious position despite extending their lead beyond 200. Resuming their second innings overnight without loss, openers Zubayr Hamza and Lesego Senokwane built a solid foundation with confident starts. However, the Rishabh Pant-led side unleashed a ferocious counter-attack in the final hour of the morning session.

Off-spinner Tanush Kotian emerged as the chief destroyer, claiming two crucial wickets to add to his impressive first-innings haul of four. His guile and control rattled the middle order, triggering panic in the South African dugout. Complementing Kotian’s brilliance was Chennai Super Kings pacer Anshul Kamboj, who struck twice with fiery pace and precision, dismantling the top order and exposing the visitors’ fragility.

The collapse saw South Africa A lose four wickets for just 25 runs in a brutal 10-over spell, shifting momentum firmly in India A’s favor. Despite the damage, the lower order showed resilience, pushing the lead past the 200-run mark and keeping the contest alive. India A’s bowlers, led by Kotian and Kamboj, now hold the upper hand heading into the afternoon session.

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With the pitch offering turn and variable bounce, India A will aim to restrict South Africa A further and set up a manageable chase. The unofficial Test remains finely poised, with Kamboj’s emergence as a standout performer adding intrigue to India’s pace-bowling depth ahead of the senior series.

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