India A vs Australia A 2nd Unofficial Test Prediction, Pitch Report, Playing XI & Complete Match Preview
India A vs Australia A 2nd unofficial Test prediction takes centre stage as the four-day fixture gets underway at the Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground on September 29, 2026. This India A vs Australia A 2nd unofficial Test prediction delivers a comprehensive match preview covering the pitch report, weather forecast, squad analysis, probable playing XIs, key player battles, head-to-head record, live streaming details, and the final match winner verdict. For readers tracking the exchange market, 99exch provides live odds and betting exchange insights, while its cricket betting section covers market trends for this crucial red-ball audition. This blog remains strictly for informational purposes — 18+ Gamble Responsibly.
Match Details: India A vs Australia A, 2nd Unofficial Test
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | India A vs Australia A, 2nd Unofficial Test |
| Series | Australia A tour of India 2026 |
| Date | September 29 – October 2, 2026 |
| Time | 9:30 AM Local / 4:00 AM GMT / 9:30 AM IST |
| Venue | Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground |
| City | Puducherry, India |
| Live Streaming (India) | JioHotstar (likely) |
The second four-day fixture marks a critical juncture in the multi-format A tour. India A, having lost the opening unofficial Test by seven wickets, find themselves in a must-win situation to level the series. Australia A, buoyed by their clinical performance in the first match, will be eager to seal the series and reinforce their credentials ahead of the 2027 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The timing of this series could not be more strategic. India are scheduled to host New Zealand for two Tests later this year, before welcoming Australia for a five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in early 2027. The India A setup has become a crucial pipeline for identifying players capable of performing in red-ball cricket at the highest level.
For Australia, the stakes are equally high. The opening slot left vacant by Usman Khawaja’s retirement remains unresolved, and the middle order has questions of its own. Marnus Labuschagne’s lean run has created an opening, and Peter Handscomb — whose last Test call-up was the 2023 BGT in India — could force his way back into contention with a strong series.
Historical Context: Why This Match Matters
The first unofficial Test at Puducherry ended in a comprehensive seven-wicket victory for Australia A, with the visitors chasing down a modest target of 168 on the final day. The match was a stark reminder of the challenges that await Australia in subcontinental conditions and a wake-up call for India A’s batting unit.
Australia A’s spinners were the architects of their victory. Todd Murphy and Corey Rocchiccioli combined to take 12 wickets across both innings, exploiting a pitch that offered turn and bounce from Day 2 onwards. The pace duo of Brendan Doggett and Fergus O’Neill provided excellent support, maintaining pressure with disciplined lines and lengths.
India A’s batting, on the other hand, struggled to cope with the quality of Australia’s spin attack. Despite promising starts from Devdutt Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan, the middle order failed to capitalise on favorable conditions. The team’s inability to post a competitive first-innings total proved decisive.
The second Test represents a crucial opportunity for India A to demonstrate resilience and adaptability. For Australia A, it is a chance to prove that their first victory was no fluke and that they possess the depth and skill to compete in Indian conditions.
Venue Deep Dive: Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground
Location and Infrastructure
The Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground is located in Puducherry, a coastal city approximately 160 kilometres south of Chennai. The venue has become a regular host for A-team and domestic cricket, offering conditions that closely replicate what international teams will encounter in southern India.
The ground has hosted 59 T20 matches, with bowlers holding a slight advantage over batters in those fixtures. However, the red-ball statistics from last season tell a different story — spinners dominate, and the surface deteriorates as the match progresses.
Pitch Report: Siechem Ground, Puducherry
The pitch at Puducherry is a batting-friendly surface early on, with a par first-innings score in the 170–194 range in T20 cricket. For first-class cricket, the surface offers more to the bowlers, particularly spinners, as the match wears on. The coastal humidity and September conditions could assist the seamers with the new ball before the pitch settles into a good batting surface.
| Pitch Parameter | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Pitch Type | Natural turf |
| Pace vs Spin | Pace-friendly early; spin dominant later |
| Spin Wickets (Last 3 FC Games) | 52 at 23.32 |
| Pace Wickets (Last 3 FC Games) | 16 at 36+ |
| Batting Friendliness | High early; deteriorates |
| Weather | Mostly cloudy, humid |
Analysis: The data from last season’s First-Class matches at this venue paints a clear picture. Spinners will be the primary wicket-taking threat, especially from Day 2 onwards. The India A spin duo of Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian — both left-arm orthodox and off-spin all-rounders — will be pivotal. Australia’s decision to include two specialist spinners in Murphy and Rocchiccioli reflects their awareness of these conditions.
The new ball could offer some assistance for the seamers, particularly with the coastal humidity in Puducherry. Tushar Deshpande and Anshul Kamboj will look to make early inroads before the spinners take over.
The first Test at this venue saw 20 wickets fall to spinners across both innings, while the pacers managed just 8 wickets. This statistic underscores the importance of spin bowling in the upcoming fixture.
Weather Forecast for Match Days (September 29 – October 2, 2026)
| Day | Temperature | Rain Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 (Sep 29) | 28°C | 25% |
| Day 2 (Sep 30) | 28°C | 30% |
| Day 3 (Oct 1) | 27°C | 25% |
| Day 4 (Oct 2) | 27°C | 20% |
Verdict: The forecast suggests mostly cloudy conditions with humidity around 68–80%. Rain interruptions are possible but unlikely to cause significant delays. The humid conditions will assist the seamers early in the day, while the spinners will come into play as the match progresses.
Squad Analysis: India A
India A have named a 15-member squad led by Devdutt Padikkal, with Sai Sudharsan as vice-captain. The squad is a blend of capped internationals and emerging domestic talent.
India A Unofficial Test Squad
| Player | Role | Batting/Bowling Style |
|---|---|---|
| Devdutt Padikkal (c) | Top-order Batter | Left-hand bat |
| Sai Sudharsan (vc) | Top-order Batter | Left-hand bat |
| Aman Mokhade | Top-order Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Aayush Pandey | Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Yash Rathod | Batter | Left-hand bat |
| Shaik Rasheed | Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Kumar Kushagra (wk) | Wicketkeeper-Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Narayan Jagadeesan (wk) | Wicketkeeper-Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Shams Mulani | All-rounder | Left-hand bat / Slow left-arm orthodox |
| Tanush Kotian | All-rounder | Right-hand bat / Right-arm off-break |
| Tushar Deshpande | Bowler | Right-arm medium-fast |
| Anshul Kamboj | Bowling All-rounder | Right-hand bat / Right-arm medium |
| Praful Hinge | Bowler | Right-arm fast |
| Nachiket Bhute | Bowler | Right-arm medium |
| Vijaykumar Vyshak | Bowler | Right-arm medium-fast |
Key Squad Notes:
- Devdutt Padikkal leads the side after scoring two hundreds in the two-match series against Sri Lanka A last month. His recent red-ball form has been exceptional.
- Sai Sudharsan returns from a foot injury and will be eager to replicate his performances from the India A tour of Sri Lanka, where he notched back-to-back centuries.
- Anshul Kamboj is the only other capped player in the squad alongside Padikkal and Sudharsan.
- The selectors have rewarded domestic performers including Aman Mokhade, Aayush Pandey, Kumar Kushagra, Yash Rathod, and Shaik Rasheed.
- Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian are the primary spin options — both are all-rounders, which means one specialist batter may be squeezed out of the XI.
India A Probable Playing XI vs Australia A
| Position | Player | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aman Mokhade | Rewarded for domestic form |
| 2 | Devdutt Padikkal (c) | Captain; in outstanding red-ball form |
| 3 | Sai Sudharsan | Returning from injury; back-to-back tons in SL |
| 4 | Shaik Rasheed | Impressive domestic returns |
| 5 | Yash Rathod | Left-handed middle-order option |
| 6 | Kumar Kushagra (wk) | Wicketkeeper; aggressive batter |
| 7 | Tanush Kotian | Off-spinning all-rounder |
| 8 | Shams Mulani | Left-arm spin all-rounder |
| 9 | Anshul Kamboj | Seam-bowling all-rounder |
| 10 | Tushar Deshpande | Right-arm fast; new-ball bowler |
| 11 | Praful Hinge | Right-arm fast; extra pace |
Bench: Ayush Pandey, Narayan Jagadeesan, Nachiket Bhute, Vijaykumar Vyshak.
Analysis: India A’s batting lineup has a strong top order, with Padikkal and Sudharsan forming a formidable partnership. Both are left-handers and have recent centuries to their name. The middle order features domestic performers who have earned their opportunities. The all-round presence of Kotian and Mulani gives the team balance, though it means only five specialist batters may play. The pace attack of Deshpande, Kamboj, and Hinge has variety and the ability to exploit early conditions.
India A may consider bringing in Vijaykumar Vyshak for additional pace, or Narayan Jagadeesan for extra batting depth. However, the team management is likely to persist with the same combination that showed promise in patches during the first Test.
Squad Analysis: Australia A
Australia A have named a 15-member squad led by Peter Handscomb, with Josh Philippe taking wicketkeeping duties. The squad is a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging stars.
Australia A Unofficial Test Squad
| Player | Role | Batting/Bowling Style |
|---|---|---|
| Peter Handscomb (c) | Middle-order Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Sam Konstas | Opening Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Campbell Kellaway | Opening Batter | Left-hand bat |
| Nathan McSweeney | Top-order Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Jason Sangha | Middle-order Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Josh Philippe (wk) | Wicketkeeper-Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Liam Scott | All-rounder | Right-hand bat / Right-arm medium |
| Fergus O’Neill | Bowler | Right-arm fast-medium |
| Todd Murphy | Bowler | Right-arm off-break |
| Corey Rocchiccioli | Bowler | Right-arm off-break |
| Brendan Doggett | Bowler | Right-arm fast |
| Jack Edwards | All-rounder | Right-hand bat / Right-arm medium |
| Sam Harper (wk) | Wicketkeeper-Batter | Right-hand bat |
| Liam Hatcher | Bowler | Right-arm fast |
| Jhye Richardson | Bowler | Right-arm fast |
Key Squad Notes:
- Peter Handscomb leads the side. His last Test call-up was the 2023 BGT in India, where he scored an unbeaten 72 in Delhi. At 35, this could be his final opportunity to force his way back into the Test setup.
- Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney are competing for the opening slot left vacant by Usman Khawaja’s retirement. Konstas scored 72 in the first Test and looks increasingly ready for higher honours.
- Todd Murphy and Corey Rocchiccioli form a twin off-spin attack suited to subcontinental conditions. Murphy was part of the 2023 BGT squad and is viewed as Nathan Lyon’s long-term successor.
- Brendan Doggett leads the pace attack, with Fergus O’Neill and Liam Scott providing support.
- Jhye Richardson provides experienced back-up in the pace department, though he may be managed carefully given his injury history.
Australia A Probable Playing XI vs India A
| Position | Player | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sam Konstas | Aggressive opener; scored 72 in first Test |
| 2 | Campbell Kellaway | Left-handed opening partner |
| 3 | Nathan McSweeney | Competing for opening slot |
| 4 | Peter Handscomb (c) | Most experienced batter; good player of spin |
| 5 | Jason Sangha | Middle-order enforcer |
| 6 | Josh Philippe (wk) | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| 7 | Liam Scott | All-rounder; medium pace |
| 8 | Fergus O’Neill | Right-arm fast-medium |
| 9 | Todd Murphy | Off-spinner; wicket-taking threat |
| 10 | Corey Rocchiccioli | Off-spinner; 12 wickets in first Test |
| 11 | Brendan Doggett | Right-arm fast; new-ball bowler |
Bench: Jack Edwards, Sam Harper, Liam Hatcher, Jhye Richardson.
Analysis: Australia A’s batting lineup has a solid foundation with Konstas and Kellaway at the top. Handscomb’s presence at number four provides stability, while Sangha offers middle-order power. The all-round capabilities of Scott give the team balance. The bowling attack, led by Doggett and O’Neill, has genuine pace. The spin duo of Murphy and Rocchiccioli will be the key to Australia A’s chances on a surface that will offer turn.
Australia A may consider bringing in Jhye Richardson for additional pace or Jack Edwards for all-round depth. However, the team management is likely to persist with the same combination that delivered a convincing victory in the first Test.
Head-to-Head Record: India A vs Australia A
| Format | Matches | India A Won | Australia A Won | Drawn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unofficial Test | 15 | 6 | 9 | 0 |
Recent Encounters:
Australia A hold a 9–6 advantage in head-to-head unofficial Test encounters. In 2018, the two sides played a two-match series in India that ended 1–1. More recently, the 2025 series saw India A win one match by 5 wickets, with Australia A claiming the other.
The first Test of this series saw Australia A secure a comprehensive seven-wicket victory. The visitors chased down the target of 168 with relative ease, thanks to a composed innings from Sam Konstas and a quickfire cameo from Josh Philippe.
The historical edge lies with Australia A, but recent form and home conditions favour India A. The presence of two frontline spinners in the Australian XI suggests they have learned from past tours and are better prepared for Indian conditions.
Key Player Battles
1. Devdutt Padikkal vs Brendan Doggett
Padikkal enters this match in exceptional form, having scored two hundreds in Sri Lanka. Doggett leads Australia A’s pace attack and will look to test Padikkal with the new ball. The battle between these two could set the tone for India A’s innings. Padikkal’s ability to score quickly against the new ball will be crucial, especially if Australia A’s spinners come into play early.
2. Sam Konstas vs Tushar Deshpande
Konstas is one of Australia’s most exciting young openers. He scored a composed 72 in the first Test, demonstrating his ability to adapt to Indian conditions. Deshpande has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket and will look to exploit any early movement. Konstas’ ability to survive the new-ball spell will be crucial for Australia A’s chances.
3. Peter Handscomb vs Shams Mulani
Handscomb is Australia’s most experienced batter and a proven player of spin. Mulani is India A’s premier left-arm spinner. Handscomb’s footwork against spin will be tested, and his wicket will be key for India A. The battle between these two could determine the course of Australia A’s innings.
4. Nathan McSweeney vs Tanush Kotian
McSweeney is competing for an opening slot and will bat at number three. Kotian’s off-spin could trouble him, especially if the pitch offers turn. McSweeney’s ability to rotate strike against spin will be under scrutiny.
5. Todd Murphy vs Kumar Kushagra
Murphy is Australia’s most accomplished young spinner. He took 6 wickets in the first Test and will be full of confidence. Kushagra is an aggressive wicketkeeper-batter who likes to take on spin bowling. Murphy will look to deceive Kushagra with his variations, while Kushagra will look to attack.
6. Corey Rocchiccioli vs Sai Sudharsan
Rocchiccioli was the standout performer in the first Test, taking 12 wickets across both innings. Sudharsan is one of India’s most promising young batters and will be eager to make an impact after a modest first Test. The battle between these two could shape the outcome of the match.
Team Strengths and Weaknesses
India A
Strengths:
- Strong recent form of Padikkal and Sudharsan
- Quality spin options in Mulani and Kotian
- Home advantage and familiarity with conditions
- Deep batting lineup with all-rounders
- Motivation to level the series and impress selectors
Weaknesses:
- Only two capped players in the squad
- Potential squeeze of specialist batters due to all-rounder-heavy lineup
- Lack of experience in the pace department
- Pressure of selection expectations
- Batting collapse in the first Test
Australia A
Strengths:
- Experienced campaigners in Handscomb and Philippe
- Two frontline spinners in Murphy and Rocchiccioli
- Competitive opening pair in Konstas and Kellaway
- Confidence from first Test victory
- Preparation for BGT in similar conditions
Weaknesses:
- Unresolved opening combination
- Middle-order questions
- Historically poor record in Indian conditions
- Pressure on Handscomb to perform
- Lack of a left-arm spin option
- Potential complacency after first Test win
Match Prediction: India A vs Australia A 2nd Unofficial Test
Toss Prediction
The team winning the toss is likely to bat first. The pitch at Puducherry offers assistance to spinners from Day 2 onwards, and batting first allows the team to put runs on the board and then unleash their spinners on a wearing pitch.
Toss Prediction: India A win the toss and bat first.
Score Prediction
- India A 1st Innings: 300–350 runs
- Australia A 1st Innings: 220–270 runs
- India A 2nd Innings: 180–220 runs (if needed)
- Australia A 2nd Innings: 180–220 runs
Match Winner Prediction
India A are the favourites. They have home advantage, better knowledge of conditions, and a strong spin attack suited to the surface. Australia A have the experience to compete, but their batting lineup will be tested by India A’s spinners. The first Test defeat will have stung the Indian camp, and they will be desperate to level the series.
Prediction: India A win by a significant margin (80+ runs or 6+ wickets).
Key Factors
- Spin dominance: Spinners are expected to take the majority of wickets. India A’s Mulani and Kotian have the advantage of bowling on familiar conditions.
- Padikkal’s form: His recent centuries suggest he is in the form of his life.
- Australia’s opening combination: Konstas and Kellaway will need to see off the new ball.
- Weather: Humid conditions could assist the seamers early, but the spinners will come into play as the match progresses.
- India A’s batting approach: The team needs to show more patience and application against spin.
Betting Odds: India A vs Australia A 2nd Unofficial Test
Disclaimer: The following odds are for informational purposes only. They are subject to change. Gambling involves risk. 18+ Gamble Responsibly.
| Market | India A | Australia A |
|---|---|---|
| Match Winner | 1.50 | 2.60 |
| Top India A Batter | Devdutt Padikkal (3.00) | — |
| Top Australia A Batter | Peter Handscomb (4.00) | — |
| Top India A Wicket-Taker | Shams Mulani (3.00) | — |
| Top Australia A Wicket-Taker | Corey Rocchiccioli (3.00) | — |
India A are clear favourites at 1.50, reflecting their home advantage and recent form. Australia A at 2.60 represent value for those who believe their experience can overcome the conditions.
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Fantasy Cricket Tips: India A vs Australia A 2nd Unofficial Test
Wicketkeeper
- Kumar Kushagra (India A) — Aggressive batter; scored 69 in the first innings.
- Josh Philippe (Australia A) — Experienced wicketkeeper-batter.
Batters
- Devdutt Padikkal (India A) — Captain; in outstanding form.
- Sai Sudharsan (India A) — Back-to-back centuries in Sri Lanka.
- Peter Handscomb (Australia A) — Most experienced batter; good player of spin.
- Sam Konstas (Australia A) — Aggressive opener; scored 72 in first Test.
All-rounders
- Tanush Kotian (India A) — Off-spin and lower-order batting.
- Shams Mulani (India A) — Left-arm spin; leading wicket-taker.
- Liam Scott (Australia A) — Medium pace and useful lower-order runs.
Bowlers
- Todd Murphy (Australia A) — Off-spinner; wicket-taking threat.
- Corey Rocchiccioli (Australia A) — Off-spinner; took 12 wickets in first Test.
- Brendan Doggett (Australia A) — Right-arm fast; new-ball bowler.
- Anshul Kamboj (India A) — Seam-bowling all-rounder.
Captain and Vice-Captain
- Captain: Devdutt Padikkal
- Vice-Captain: Corey Rocchiccioli
Live Streaming Details: Where to Watch India A vs Australia A
| Country | TV Channel | Live Streaming |
|---|---|---|
| India | No official broadcaster announced | JioHotstar (likely) |
| Australia | — | Cricket Australia website |
| Global | — | ICC TV |
Note: No television broadcaster has been announced for this series. Live streaming is likely to be available on the JioHotstar app and website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is the India A vs Australia A 2nd Unofficial Test?
The match is being played from September 29 to October 2, 2026, at 9:30 AM local time.
2. Where is the match being played?
The match is being played at the Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground in Puducherry, India.
3. Who is the captain of India A?
Devdutt Padikkal is the captain of India A.
4. Who is the captain of Australia A?
Peter Handscomb is the captain of Australia A.
5. What is the pitch report for Puducherry Siechem Ground?
The pitch is batting-friendly early but favours spinners as the match progresses. In the last three First-Class games, spinners took 52 wickets compared to just 16 for pace bowlers.
6. What is the weather forecast for the match?
The forecast suggests mostly cloudy conditions with temperatures around 27–28°C and humidity of 68–80%. Rain interruptions are possible but unlikely.
7. Who won the first unofficial Test?
Australia A won the first unofficial Test by 7 wickets.
8. What is the expected score?
India A are expected to score 300–350 runs in their first innings. Australia A are expected to score 220–270 runs.
9. Who will win the match?
India A are the favourites to win.
10. Where can I watch the match live in India?
You can likely watch the match live on the JioHotstar app and website. No television broadcaster has been announced.
Conclusion: India A vs Australia A 2nd Unofficial Test Prediction
The India A vs Australia A 2nd Unofficial Test at Puducherry is more than just a cricket match. It is a direct audition for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a platform for emerging talent to stake their claim, and a strategic preparation ground for Australia’s long-awaited attempt to win a Test series in India.
India A enter as favourites despite their first Test defeat. They have home advantage, in-form batters in Padikkal and Sudharsan, and a spin attack perfectly suited to the conditions. Australia A possess experience in Handscomb and Philippe, and a twin-spin attack that could exploit the surface. But history and conditions favour the hosts.
The pitch will offer assistance to the spinners from Day 2 onwards, making the first innings crucial. If India A can post 300+ and then unleash Mulani and Kotian on a deteriorating surface, they will be difficult to stop.
Final Prediction: India A win by a significant margin.
Score Prediction: India A 320, Australia A 240 & 190.
Player to Watch: Devdutt Padikkal.
Dark Horse: Shams Mulani.
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