Sai Sudharsan roars with daddy hundred vs SL A, cracks 267-ball 168 to put India A in command of 2nd unofficial Test

India A firmly seized control on Day 2 of the second unofficial Test against Sri Lanka A at Galle, largely thanks to a masterclass in red-ball batting from Sai Sudharsan.

Sai Sudharsan burns bright with 168 against Sri Lanka A

In reply to the hosts' first-innings score of 366, the elegant left-hander anchored the visitors' response with a marathon century. Alongside a crucial contribution from Dhruv Jurel later in the day, Sudharsan’s superb knock allowed India A to confidently erase the deficit and pull ahead.

ALSO READ: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's debut mystery continues but Sam Curran draws up plans to test 15-year-old in England

The left-hander took charge of the innings following the dismissal of opener Aman Mokhade for 37. Displaying an ideal blend of discipline and fluid strokeplay, Sudharsan smoothly crossed the half-century mark before converting it into a commanding hundred. He was equally adept at neutralizing Sri Lanka's pace and spin threats, ultimately putting together a magnificent 168 before left-arm orthodox bowler Dilum Sudeera managed to end his exceptional vigil.

A major highlight of the day was Sudharsan's massive partnership with Devdutt Padikkal, who unfortunately fell just short of his own milestone when he was dismissed for 94. Together, the duo completely drained the energy out of the Sri Lankan bowling attack. Filled with textbook drives and crisp cuts, Sudharsan's innings reinforced his growing reputation among fans and selectors as one of the country's most promising long-format talents.

ALSO READ: Lionel Messi breaks Pelé's long-standing FIFA World Cup record as Argentina beat Cape Verde

Earlier in the game, Sri Lanka A restarted their first innings at an overnight position of 288/5, eventually wrapping up at 366. While home captain Sahan Arachchige led from the front with a hard-fought 127, the bowling duo of Gurnoor Brar and Saransh Jain ran through the rest of the lineup, combining for eight wickets to restrict the hosts' scoring.

India A dominate Sri Lanka A in 2nd unofficial Test

In reply, India A’s batters put on a clinic. Aman Mokhade provided early impetus before Sudharsan and Padikkal completely demoralised the opposition with their massive second-wicket partnership. Even after Sudharsan departed, captain Dhruv Jurel kept the pressure on the hosts, steering the innings forward to sit unbeaten on 43. By reaching a dominant 493/5 as of 127 overs, India A built a healthy 127-run advantage, firmly dictating terms for the rest of the match.