One of only two batters to score more than 10 in India A’s first-innings total of 113, Padikkal had looked solid during his 32. In the second innings, he revived India A’s innings from 10-2. They needed another 194 to avoid the innings defeat.

He stitched a 215-run third-wicket partnership with Sai Sudarshan (91), he joined hands with Yash Rathod (66) to add 142 runs for the fifth wicket as India A dominated the proceedings on day three.

In the process, Padikkal notched up his 12th first-class century off 128 deliveries with a six off Jayden Lennox. He continued to bat with authority and found boundaries at regular intervals, especially after lunch.

Just when it looked like he would bring up his double ton, Padikkal was strangled down the leg side, off Zak Gibson. However, he was not pleased with the umpire’s decision, and even gestured to the umpire that he didn’t nick the ball at all.

https://t.co/0u6UveAjWd

— ' (@Chixxwalia) October 26, 2026

With no DRS in the game, Padikkal departed for a 248-ball 199 including 24 fours and three sixes. He had been India’s best batter in Sri Lanka earlier this year, scoring two tons in three innings and has found his rhythm just in time ahead of the Test series in New Zealand.

Meanwhile, only last week, Priyansh Arya had become the first Indian in a decade to be dismissed on 199 in first-class cricket during a Ranji Trophy clash against Gujarat. Padikkal is now added to the list and is the first Indian to do so away from home.

India A finish strong on Day three, thanks to Padikkal’s 199

Thanks to Padikkal’s exceptional knock and fifties from Sudarshan and Rathod, India A finished day three on 488-8, with a lead of 284 in the second innings. They will be keen on adding some quick runs on the final morning and setting a challenging target for New Zealand A.

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