In the first match of the unofficial tour between India A and New Zealand A, Indian A player Devdhadhat Padhikkal was just one run away from reaching a double century. This match took place at Bert Sachliff Oval in Lincoln.
Padhikkal was dismissed on 199 runs following a controversial catch. The ball hit his pad rather than the bat, which caused confusion for the player regarding the umpire's decision. The ball was bowled by Jack Gibson and was behind the legal crease.
When Devdhadhat Padhikkal attempted to flick the ball, it did not connect with the bat but instead struck his pad and went into the gloves of bowler Mitchell Hey. After the New Zealand A players appealed, the umpire raised his finger. Padhikkal expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision, telling the umpire that the ball was far from his bat, yet he still lost his wicket.
Devdhadhat Padhikkal scored 199 runs off 248 balls, including 24 fours and three sixes. Given that he was only one run short of a double century, such an ending was extremely disappointing for him. Yash Rathore also praised his efforts as he left the field, supporting him by placing a hand on his shoulder.
After India A scored only 113 runs in the first innings, Devdhadhat Padhikkal's innings gave the team a chance to fight back. Although his 199-run innings will be remembered, the decision made just before reaching a double century is sure to be a subject of discussion.
The India A squad included: Yashvi Shaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdhadhat Padhikkal, Sai Sudarshan, Dhruv Jurel (Captain/Wicketkeeper), Yash Rathore, Washington Sundar, Anshul Kamboj, Akib Nabi, Akash Dip, and Mukesh Choudhary. The New Zealand A squad consisted of: Rhys Marius (Captain), Curtis Hifi, Tim Robinson, Matthew Boyle, Dean Foxcroft, Mitchell Hey (Bowler), Simon King, Christian Clark, Fraser Shite, Zeiden Lennox, and Jack Gibson.