Devdutt Padikkal hit a half-century while Kumar Kushagra remained unbeaten on 46 as India A set Australia A a target of 363 on the third day of their four-day game on Thursday.

Australia A finished the day on 55/2, leaving them with 308 runs to get. They now face the task of batting through the final day if they are to save the match.

India A lose their way after strong start

India A were bowled out for 199 in their second innings after reaching 93/1. Todd Murphy was the standout bowler for Australia A, claiming four wickets, including that of Sai Sudharsan.

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Sudharsan, who scored a half-century in the first innings, made 39 from 85 balls with three fours. He and Padikkal added 68 runs for the second wicket as India A built on their 163-run first-innings lead.

Sudharsan was dismissed shortly before lunch after he was trapped lbw while trying to sweep Murphy.

Padikkal continues impressive run

Padikkal continued his strong form in first-class cricket, scoring 59 off 88 balls and hitting seven fours.

The India A captain brought up his half-century with two consecutive boundaries against Liam Scott. It was his fourth score of 50 or more in as many first-class matches.

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However, Padikkal could not stay for long after reaching the milestone. He was dismissed LBW by Scott, becoming the fifth India A batter to fall.

India A then suffered a late collapse, losing their final six wickets for just 48 runs. Kushagra, who had scored a century in the first innings, stayed unbeaten on 46 as the hosts were bowled out for 199.

Australia A face uphill task

Australia A began their chase cautiously but lost two wickets before the close. They will resume on 55/2 on the final morning, with another 308 runs required for victory.

Brief scores

India A 334 & 199 all out in 57.4 overs (Sai Sudharsan 39, Devdutt Padikkal 59, Kumar Kushagra 46 n.o., Brendan Doggett 2-21, Todd Murphy 4-48, Liam Scott 2-22) v Australia A 171 & 55/2 in 23 overs.