Haines Leads England Lions Fightback After Nair’s Marathon Double Ton for India A

Haines Leads England Lions Fightback After Nair’s Marathon Double Ton for India A

India A might have thought they were firmly in command after posting a mammoth 557, but a resolute century from opener Tom Haines helped England Lions mount a strong response on day two of the first unofficial Test in Canterbury.

At stumps, the Lions had reached 237 for 2, trailing by 320 runs but with eight wickets still in hand. Haines was unbeaten on 103, his 15th first-class century and third of the English summer. He was well supported by Max Holden (64*) and Emilio Gay (46), as the top order stood firm against the visiting bowlers on a flattening pitch.

Earlier in the day, Karun Nair resumed on 197 and quickly reached his fourth first-class double-century. His 204 off 281 deliveries, including 26 fours and a six, was a display of patience and control. Nair’s knock lasted over seven hours and solidified his case for a Test return ahead of India’s upcoming tour match against England in Leeds starting June 20.

Nair was eventually dismissed by Zaman Akhter, edging behind after a determined innings. India A were bowled out for 557 in 125.1 overs, with key contributions from Dhruv Jurel (94) and Sarfaraz Khan (92). For the Lions, Akhter and Tom Hull claimed three wickets each, while Jack picked up two.

The Lions' reply started shakily, with Anshul Kamboj removing Ben McKinney with a beautiful delivery that nipped in and uprooted the off stump. Kamboj impressed with his control and consistency, while Mukesh Kumar struggled to find rhythm early on.

India A were left to rue several missed chances. Jurel dropped a straightforward edge from Gay, while Sarfaraz and captain Abhimanyu Easwaran spilled tough but crucial chances off Haines on 11 and 83 respectively. These lapses proved costly as Haines anchored the innings confidently, punishing errant bowling with fluent strokeplay. He handled the left-arm spin of Harsh Dubey with ease, employing both the sweep and reverse sweep to good effect.

The pitch has flattened considerably, aiding the Lions' batters. Haines noted that bowlers “had to really smash the pitch to get something out of it.” Despite the conditions, India A will be disappointed with their lack of control, particularly in the afternoon when the run rate crept over four an over.

Shardul Thakur was the most economical of the Indian seamers, giving away just 37 runs in ten overs, while Nitish Kumar Reddy, whose place in the squad has raised some eyebrows, was expensive in a brief three-over spell that cost 27 runs.

With three days left and the Lions still 320 behind, the contest remains finely poised. Much will depend on whether the India A bowlers can regroup and break through early on day three, or if the Lions continue their spirited fightback.

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