On the second day of the first unofficial Test in Lucknow, Australia A declared their innings at 532/6, thanks to a whirlwind knock from wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Phillippe.

Philippe’s Counterattack

Resuming on just 3 runs overnight, Philippe shifted gears on Day 2 and launched a brutal assault on the India A bowlers. He reached his century in only 80 balls at a strike rate of 141.38, striking 18 fours and 4 sixes. By the time Australia A declared, Philippe remained unbeaten on 123 off 87 balls, completing his first hundred against India at the ‘A’ level.

Earlier, opener Sam Constas had set the tone on Day 1 with a brilliant century, while Liam Scott contributed 81 before falling short of a hundred.

Phillippe Eyes Comeback

The 28-year-old made his international debut in 2021 and has represented Australia in 3 ODIs (65 runs) and 12 T20Is (150 runs), but without notable success. His explosive knock against India A has revived hopes of a comeback to the senior side.

India A’s Steady Reply

In response, India A openers Abhimanyu Easwaran and Narayan Jagadeesan gave the hosts a steady start, stitching a solid half-century stand for the first wicket at stumps.