Bengaluru, Oct 31: Prenelan Subrayen produced a spell of grit and guile to put South Africa A firmly in control on the second day of the first unofficial Test against India A at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The 32-year-old off-spinner returned figures of 5 for 61 as India A collapsed from 90 without loss to 234 all out, conceding a 75-run first-innings lead. By stumps, the visitors had stretched their overall advantage to 105 runs, closing the day at 30 for no loss.
Subrayen, known for his tireless spells and relentless accuracy, bowled 22 overs on the trot, using flight and variation to dismantle India’s middle order. The spinner, who has battled setbacks including being reported for a suspect action and missing out on South Africa’s Test squad for this tour, once again let his performance speak for itself.He broke India’s solid opening stand by deceiving Ayush Mhatre in the air for 65, before dismissing Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Tanush Kotian, and Khaleel Ahmed to complete his 13th five-wicket haul in first-class cricket. His consistent lengths and subtle turn on a sluggish surface kept India’s batters guessing throughout the day.Earlier, Mhatre’s fluent 65 and B Sai Sudharsan’s patient 32 had given India A a bright start, but once Sudharsan fell to Tshepo Moreki, the innings lost direction. Ayush Badoni chipped in with 38, while the rest failed to adapt to the bounce and turn.Among the South African bowlers, pacer Okuhle Cele also impressed, claiming the prized wicket of Rishabh Pant for 17. Making his return from injury, Pant showed intent but nicked to slips while fending at a rising delivery.With two full days remaining, South Africa A are well-placed to dictate terms in the match. For India A, a strong bowling response on Day 3 will be crucial to keep the contest alive. (Agencies)
