Tom Haines batting for England Lions during the unofficial Test against India A in Northampton
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🏏 Haines Leads England Lions’ Charge After India A Collapse

Haines once again proved to be the backbone of England Lions’ batting. After smashing 171 in the first unofficial Test, he followed up with a gritty 54 on Day 2 in Northampton. Together with Emilio Gay, who struck a fighting 71, Haines ensured that England Lions remained in control as they finished the day at 192/3. Although the hosts still trail by 156 runs, their response looks solid.

Earlier, India A resumed at 319/7, but they could not capitalize on their platform. Thanks to some tight bowling and sharp fielding, England Lions wrapped up the innings quickly.

🎯 Haines and Gay Build a Crucial Partnership

After Ben McKinney fell to Anshul Kamboj early in the innings, Haines and Gay joined forces. Importantly, their 94-run stand steadied the innings at a critical stage.

  • Haines played with intent, showing his typical calm and patience.
  • Gay, although rattled by a sharp bouncer from Khaleel Ahmed, recovered well and rotated the strike smartly.
  • As the innings progressed, both batters increased their scoring rate, especially after the Lunch break.

Eventually, Haines brought up his half-century, but his stay ended soon after as he edged Tushar Deshpande to the keeper.

⚡ Tongue Strikes Early to End India A Innings

Meanwhile, Joshua Tongue made sure England Lions didn’t waste time. He removed both overnight batters — Tanush Kotian and Anshul Kamboj — within two overs. Shortly after, he produced a direct hit to run out Tushar Deshpande, ending the innings.

India A’s total of 348 came mainly from KL Rahul’s elegant 116 and Dhruv Jurel’s solid 52. Despite their solid foundation, the lower order failed to build on it.

🌦️ Gay and Cox Steer England Before Light Fades

Although Haines departed, England’s momentum didn’t drop. Gay and Jordan Cox carried the innings forward with a confident 69-run partnership.

  • Gay continued to score fluently, eventually reaching his fifty with a stylish drive.
  • Cox supported him well, hitting a few boundaries and keeping the run-rate healthy.
  • Just when things seemed in England’s favour, Kotian trapped Gay lbw for 71.

Soon after, the umpires checked the light and found it below acceptable levels. As a result, play was called off early.

📊 Day 2 Match Summary:

TeamScoreTop ScorersTop Bowlers
India A348 all outKL Rahul 116, Dhruv Jurel 52Woakes 3-50, Tongue 2-31
England Lions192/3Emilio Gay 71, Tom Haines 54Kamboj 1-38, Deshpande 1-41

🕹️ England Lions trail by 156 runs with 7 wickets in hand.