India A Struggle to Sustain Momentum on Day 4 vs. England Lions

India A were in a fix on the fourth day of the second unofficial Test match against England Lions as the game progressed at the County Ground in Northampton. Beginning the day on four wickets down and in need of a strong second-innings lead, the visitors were hit by a string of reverses that denied them momentum and command. By the post-lunch session India A had lost seven wickets with the score at 290 for 7 in 66 overs. The side still in charge by 311 runs but the worry now was how much more they could score before getting bowled out.

Shardul Thakur who was so promising when he came onto the crease underwhelmed fans after scoring two sixes at the beginning of his innings. There were high hopes but he could not carry his good beginning into a huge score and finished at 34 runs from 47 balls with three boundaries and two sixes. Nitish Kumar Reddy also played a cautious knock for 42 off 78 balls with four boundaries and a six but like Thakur did not make an attempt to dominate the game either. These two were under scanner as they are the prime candidates for the fast bowling all-rounder position in the Test series against England. But their failure to play long innings may influence their selection when selectors finally decide.

Earlier during the day India A continued their innings at 163 for 4 hoping to consolidate their position. Dhruv Jurel who had appeared calm while being at the crease got out after making 28 runs which was another big setback. The side had been hoping for him to play a vital supporting role in the middle order but he failed to do so. The loss of Jurel mounted pressure on the other batsmen and England Lions bowlers ensured to take advantage of the situation.

The highlight from Day 3 remained the solid batting display by KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran who both impressed with their half-centuries. Rahul who had already made a strong statement in the first innings with a commanding 116 followed it up with a well-made 51 in the second innings showing his consistency and class. His form has been one of the positives for India A on this tour. In contrast, Easwaran played with aggression and control to make 80 runs that provided India A a boost before the late order collapse began.

England Lions, on their part, were disciplined in their bowling and fielding. They bowled narrow lines and maintained the pressure on India A particularly during the second session of Day 4. Their effort was clearly visible as wickets fell at frequent intervals and Indian batsmen struggled to settle down and score large partnerships. The Lions had previously scored 327 runs in their first innings which was replied well to by India A who had managed to score 348 in their first innings. The game was evenly poised but the momentum gradually drifted in favour of India A as they were able to establish a comfortable lead in the second innings despite the fall of wickets.

What is important now is the manner in which the Indian A team's remaining three wickets add to the score. A couple of additional runs can enable the team to register a healthy total and leave England Lions struggling in their chase. The Northampton pitch has not been too evident with any signs of wear and tear but it could be tricky to bat on the fourth day in any case with the type of bowling talent Indian A has in the ranks.

The Test series has been a good platform for fringe players and youngsters to leave an impression and put their case on for national selection. Performances in these matches are always under close observation by the selectors and coaches. The series is a confidence booster for KL Rahul as he finds his way back into the team following his injury. His consecutive good scores reflect his eagerness and preparation for the big stage once again.

Abhimanyu Easwaran also impressed as he battles to grab an opening position. The way he bats aggressively and can turn strike has been one of the highlights of the series. He still keeps himself in the running for greater glory particularly with Indian Test team being in transition and seeking reliable top-order batsmen.

The match still has plenty to give and with the entire day remaining anything can happen. If India A can scrape 40 to 50 runs more then they will be in a very good position to mount a charge for a win. England Lions have proved they can stage a comeback though and they will be hoping their own batters can stand up to the pressure. The game can be drawn if the Lions remain composed or we could have a thrilling last day in case India A's bowlers are on the right line early in the game.

Currently the spotlight is on the last hour of Day 4 and how the Indian lower order takes up the challenge. Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy both fell short of the opportunity to nail their case for selection to the senior team but there is always hope for others to rise up and shine. The game is more than a battle between two teams as it acts as a connecting link from domestic brilliance to international aspirations. Each run achieved and each wicket taken will be weighed meticulously in terms of future picks and combinations for India's next Test tests.