2nd Unofficial Test – SA all-out for 221 runs:Markram Ackerman slams century, scores 134-run knock, Siraj-Akash bag two wickets each; IND lead by 112 runs

India A’s fast bowlers delivered a superb performance on the second day of the four-day match against South Africa A, helping the hosts take control of the contest at the BCCI Centre of Excellence on Friday. Despite a fighting century from Marques Ackerman, South Africa A were bowled out for 221 in their first innings, handing India A a 34-run lead. By stumps, India A were 78 for 3 in their second innings, extending their overall lead to 112 runs. Marques Ackerman was the lone star for the visitors, scoring a brilliant 134 off 118 balls, laced with 17 fours and 5 sixes. However, his effort wasn’t enough to stop India’s pace attack from dominating. For India A, Prasidh Krishna impressed with figures of 3 for 35, while Mohammad Siraj and Akash Deep supported him well, claiming two wickets each. Siraj-Akash dominate South Africa with early strikes South Africa A’s chase of India’s first-innings 255 began poorly, with the visitors reduced to 12 for 3 inside the first eight overs. Akash Deep struck early, bowling Lesego Senokwane with a fine delivery that moved just enough to beat the bat. Skipper Temba Bavuma fell soon after, caught down the leg side off Akash, a decision that left him visibly frustrated. Siraj then removed Zubayr Hamza, leaving the visitors reeling. The fiery new-ball spell from Siraj and Akash showcased pace, bounce, and accuracy—qualities that would surely please the Indian team management ahead of the upcoming Test series against South Africa. Ackerman fights back for Proteas, scores a century Ackerman, however, stood firm amidst the collapse. He built a solid 64-run stand with Jordan Hermann before Prasidh Krishna struck twice in quick succession to dismiss both Hermann and Connor Esterhuizen just after lunch. At 121 for 7, South Africa looked in deep trouble, but Ackerman found an able partner in Prenelan Subrayen (20). Together, they added 86 runs off just 66 balls for the eighth wicket, taking the total past 200. Ackerman’s aggression was on full display when he smashed Siraj for two sixes and three fours in one over. He reached his 13th first-class century his fastest yet, highlighting his class and determination. However, his resistance ended when he was caught by Rishabh Pant while attempting a reverse scoop off spinner Harsh Dubey. Team India strengthens lead in second unofficial Test By the end of the day, India A had tightened their grip on the game despite losing three quick wickets. KL Rahul was batting on 26 alongside Kuldeep Yadav (0)*, as the team built on their first-innings advantage. With a lead of 112 runs and momentum firmly on their side, India A will look to extend their dominance on Day 3 and set South Africa A a tough target to chase.