India played their first practice game (and MS Dhoni last match as captain) against England but unfortunately lost by three wickets.
India A side was beaten by England XI side by three wickets in a match that attracted attention considering it was Dhoni’s last game as India’s skipper. India A posted 304 in 50 overs, helped by Ambati Rayudu’s 97-ball 100 and Dhoni’s 40-ball 68*. England XI clinched the tight encounter as Sam Billings’ 93-run knock helped them reach the target with seven balls left, NDTV Sports reported.
The England XI side was helped much by Sam Billings who scored 93 for the visitors. Their unwinding fighting was equally a big boost that saw them carry the day.
The visitors had a great start as their talented openers, Alex Hales (40) and Jason Roy (62) stroke a 95-run opening wicket stand.
Then Billings and wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler (46) put forth a joint effort that would catapult England towards the target. Even after Buttler was taken off the game, Billings did not feel lonely as Liam Dawson (41) perfectly filled hid shoes. In fact, it is the two that were instrumental in giving their side the much deserved victory.
As the game approached completion, the visitors began to weaken when they lost Billings and Dawson. However, with just 15 runs to get to the target and being in control of 3 wickets, England had a happy ending.
Via NDTV Sports
Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav was crowned the show’s star after picking 5/60 in his 10 overs for India A as much as the cause was a lose.
India A had a poor starting with batsman Mandeep Singh (8) getting off the game cheaply in the eighth over of the day. However, with a perfect combination of effort between Dhawan and Rayudu, the side was able to get its second wicket.
As much as Dhawan began at a staggering pace in his innings, the tempo was upped by Rayudu and Yuvraj after his wicket.
Rayudu managed his century as Yuvraj hit six boundaries and two sixes at the small ground, NDTV Sports reports. Rayudu’s century saw him retire, consequently bringing out Dhoni, who finished leading India’s cricket Team today.
Despite not winning his last game, MS Dhoni was helpful in bringing home past 300-run mark with 8 boundaries and two sixes. However, his sixes were achieved in the final over which earned 23 runs.
