India A emerged victorious in their three-match unofficial ODI series against Australia A, clinching the series 2-1 after a thrilling decider in Kanpur. The series, filled with impressive performances and a few stumbles, provided valuable insights into the talent pool of both nations.

The final match saw India A chase down a target of 317, set by Australia A, with two wickets to spare. Prabhsimran Singh's scintillating century (102 off 68 balls) laid a solid foundation for the chase, while vital contributions from captain Shreyas Iyer (62 off 58) and Riyan Parag (62 off 55) ensured India A stayed on course. A late wobble saw India A slip from 262/3 to 301/8, but Vipraj Nigam (24) and Arshdeep Singh (7) held their nerve to guide the team home. Jack Edwards (89) and Liam Scott (73) were instrumental in Australia A's effort with the bat, helping them post a competitive total of 316. Arshdeep Singh was the pick of the Indian bowlers, claiming 3/38.

The series opener witnessed a dominant performance by India A, securing a 171-run victory. However, Australia A bounced back strongly in the second match, leveling the series with a nine-wicket win in a rain-affected encounter.

Hits:

• Riyan Parag: The Rajasthan Royals' all-rounder was the standout performer of the series, topping the scoring charts with 187 runs at an average of 62.33 and a strike rate of 123.84. He registered fifties in all three matches, demonstrating remarkable consistency and adaptability.
• Prabhsimran Singh: The young opener's century in the final ODI was a game-changer, showcasing his aggressive intent and ability to dominate attacks. His 68-ball 102 set the tone for India A's successful chase.
• Arshdeep Singh: The left-arm pacer impressed with his bowling throughout the series, picking up crucial wickets and displaying control. His 3/38 in the final ODI helped restrict Australia A to a manageable total.
• Shreyas Iyer: The India A captain led from the front, contributing a vital half-century in the final match and providing stability to the batting order. His leadership and experience were crucial in guiding the team to victory.

Flops:

• Tilak Varma: While highly rated, Varma had a quiet series, failing to make a significant impact in any of the matches.
• Inconsistent bowling: Apart from Arshdeep Singh, the other Indian bowlers lacked consistency at times, allowing the Australian batsmen to score freely.

Overall, the series was a valuable opportunity for both India A and Australia A to test their players and assess their strengths and weaknesses. While India A emerged victorious, both teams showcased promising talent and provided an exciting contest for the fans. The performance of players like Riyan Parag and Prabhsimran Singh will surely have caught the attention of the national selectors, while Arshdeep Singh would be expected to carry his form into the senior side.