Tanush Kotian, Rishabh Pant shine as India A register thrilling win over South Africa A

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India A clinched a dramatic three-wicket victory over South Africa A in the first unofficial Test at the BCCI Centre of Excellence ground, Bengaluru. The win, which gave India A a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, was powered by outstanding performances from Tanush Kotian and captain Rishabh Pant, both of whom played pivotal roles in steering their side to victory after a tense 275-run chase.

Off-spinner Tanush Kotian delivered a match-winning performance, picking up four key wickets in South Africa A’s second innings to derail their batting momentum. His figures, combined with Anshul Kamboj’s three-wicket haul, ensured that the visitors were bowled out for 199, setting India A a challenging target.

Kotian’s disciplined bowling earned him a match haul of eight wickets, underlining his growing reputation as a reliable spinner. His control and accuracy proved decisive, especially when he dismissed set batters Jordan Hermann and Zubayr Hamza, both of whom threatened to take the game away from India A.

South Africa A’s earlier total of 309 in the first innings had put India A on the back foot, with fifties from Hermann, Hamza and Rubin Hermann giving them a strong platform. However, Kotian’s consistent breakthroughs ensured the visitors couldn’t capitalize fully in their second outing.

Making his comeback after a foot injury, captain Rishabh Pant reminded fans of his match-winning flair. His 90 runs off just 113 balls, laced with 11 fours and 4 sixes, formed the backbone of India A’s chase.

India A were in early trouble at 32 for 3, but Pant counterattacked with typical aggression, building crucial partnerships with Rajat Patidar and Ayush Badoni. His confident stroke play and leadership steadied the innings, taking the game deep before his dismissal sparked a brief collapse.

Pant’s innings was not just an exhibition of his skill but also his mental toughness, as he led from the front in his first red-ball appearance since his injury layoff.

When Pant fell, the game hung in the balance. However, Anshul Kamboj (37 not out) and Manav Suthar (20 not out) showcased remarkable composure under pressure, forging a 60-run unbeaten partnership to take India A home.

Despite being struck by fiery short balls – Kamboj on the helmet and Suthar on the shoulder – the pair held firm, displaying grit and determination. Kamboj sealed the win with a six and a four in consecutive deliveries, sparking celebrations in the India A camp.

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IND A seal it vs SA A! Tanush Kotian the game-changer again – 8 wickets in the match and nerves of steel at the death. Boys in blue get it done. 🇮🇳🔥#TanushKotian #INDAvsSAA #IndiaA

— Manish_Anyways (@ManishKuma97130) November 2, 2025

India A’s all-round display highlighted their depth, resilience, and fighting spirit. Kotian’s match-winning bowling earned him the Player of the Match award, while Pant’s commanding return bodes well for India ahead of their senior team’s series against South Africa.

With a 1-0 lead, India A head into the second unofficial Test in Mysuru with momentum and confidence, eager to wrap up the series against a competitive South African side.

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