• Sam Konstas crafted a stunning hundred in the first unofficial Test against India A.

  • Australia A capitalized on a record opening partnership to post 198 without loss at Tea.

Fans erupt as Sam Konstas delivers a dazzling century against India A in the first unofficial Test
Fans erupt as Sam Konstas delivers a dazzling century against India A in the opening unofficial Test (Image source: X)

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Australia A began their India tour on a blazing note as opener Sam Konstas smashed a spectacular century against India A in the first unofficial Test at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on September 16, 2025. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Australia A rode the momentum of a record-breaking opening stand to reach 198 without loss at the close of day one, putting India A’s bowlers firmly on the back foot.

Sam Konstas’ blazing century sets up commanding start

Konstas reached his maiden first-class ton with a thunderous six over long on off Tanush Kotian, raising his helmet in celebration before the ball even hit the turf. His 101 not out came off just 126 deliveries, featuring ten fours and three sixes, at a strike rate of 80.15.

Partner Campbell Kellaway also shone, unbeaten on 88 from 96 balls with ten boundaries, to share an unbroken 188-run stand inside 35 overs. The duo maintained a brisk run rate of 5.35, capitalising on favourable batting conditions and disciplined light-quick bowling from India A, whose seamers Prasidh Krishna (7-0-31-0) and Khaleel Ahmed (6-0-32-0) were unable to make early breakthroughs.

Opening partnership puts India A on back foot

From the outset, Australia A showed intent, punishing anything loose against a bowling attack that struggled for rhythm in the first two sessions. Konstas and Kellaway rotated strike expertly while punishing any width, cruising past 100 before lunch.

After lunch, they accelerated further, racing to 150 inside 25 overs and denying India A a foothold. The hosts’ fielding looked sharp but lacked penetration as half volleys disappeared to the boundary. With 39 overs remaining in the day, the visitors can set a daunting target, having neutralised India A’s pace battery and left Shreyas Iyer’s men scrambling for answers early in the contest.

Australia A’s imperious batting display in Lucknow has laid a solid platform for their tour, with Konstas’ century standing out as a statement innings and their unbeaten 198 opening stand signalling a long day ahead for India A’s bowlers.

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.