Northampton, UK – June 4, 2025: Emilio Gay and Tom Haines led a steady top-order performance for England Lions on Day 2 of the second unofficial Test against India A, ensuring a composed response after the visitors posted 348 in the first innings.
Resuming at 319/7 overnight, India A could add just 29 runs to their total before being bowled out. England pacer Joshua Tongue made quick work of the tail, removing Tanush Kotian and Anshul Kamboj in a sharp spell. A direct hit from Tongue ended Tushar Deshpande’s stay, wrapping up India A’s innings for 348.
In reply, the England Lions openers began confidently. Tom Haines, continuing his fine form after a brilliant 171 in the first match, forged a solid partnership with Ben McKinney. However, Kamboj struck early to dismiss McKinney in the eighth over.
That brought Emilio Gay to the crease, and the duo stitched a 94-run stand, defying the Indian bowling attack despite overcast conditions. Gay showed resilience, especially after taking a hit to the helmet from Khaleel Ahmed, while Haines brought up his fifty after the lunch break. Their momentum was briefly halted when Deshpande induced an edge from Haines to wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, dismissing him for 54.
Despite the loss, Gay continued to anchor the innings and soon brought up his half-century. He was well supported by Jordan Cox, who played fluently for an unbeaten 34. Together, they added 69 runs before Kotian trapped Gay leg-before for a well-crafted 71.
Umpires halted play shortly after due to deteriorating light and persistent drizzle. No further action was possible, and stumps were drawn with England Lions comfortably placed at 192/3, trailing India A by 156 runs.
📊 Day 2 Highlights:
- Top Scorers: Emilio Gay (71), Tom Haines (54), KL Rahul (116 in 1st innings)
- Key Partnerships:
- Gay & Haines: 94 runs
- Gay & Cox: 69 runs
- Wicket-takers:
- Joshua Tongue: 2 wickets in the morning session
- Kamboj, Deshpande, Kotian: 1 wicket each for India A
Brief Scores:
India A: 348 (KL Rahul 116, Dhruv Jurel 52; Chris Woakes 3-50)
England Lions: 192/3 (Emilio Gay 71, Tom Haines 54; Anshul Kamboj 1-38)
England Lions trail by 156 runs
