CricBengal.com | International Cricket
Devdutt Padikkal missed a double century by just one run after scoring a brilliant 199 for India A against New Zealand A in Lincoln. The left-handed batter’s innings ended following a caught-behind decision that he appeared to question, bringing renewed attention to the absence of DRS in the unofficial Test.
A commanding innings of 199
Padikkal faced 248 deliveries and struck 24 fours and three sixes at Bert Sutcliffe Oval during the third day of the first unofficial Test. His effort proved vital after India A had been dismissed for just 113 in their first innings.
India A slipped to 10 for two in the second innings before Padikkal helped rebuild the innings. He shared a 215-run partnership with Sai Sudharsan before continuing the recovery alongside Yash Rathod.
Dismissal draws attention
With Padikkal one run short of his double century, New Zealand A bowler Zak Gibson delivered a ball down the leg side. Following an appeal for a catch behind, the on-field umpire ruled the batter out.
Padikkal appeared unhappy with the decision and gestured towards the umpire, indicating that he did not believe he had edged the ball. As the match was an unofficial Test without DRS, he had no review available to challenge the call.
The dismissal has been described as controversial in media coverage. However, the available reports do not establish conclusively that the umpire made an incorrect decision.
India A fight back strongly
New Zealand A had scored 317 in their first innings to secure a 204-run lead. Padikkal’s innings helped turn the contest around, with India A reaching 488 for eight by the close of the third day and moving 284 runs ahead overall.
Although he fell agonisingly short of a double century, Padikkal’s contribution was central to India A’s recovery. His dismissal at 199 and reaction to the decision became major talking points from the day’s play.
