Opening batsman Aiden Markram amassed a telling century on day three of South Africa A’s series decider against India A in Mysore.

Markram’s 161 spanned 253 deliveries and featured 20 fours and twin sixes. He shared a telling 155-run partnership with all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, who finished unbeaten on 131.

The South Africa A captain’s century was particularly important amid the context of next month’s Test series against India. Several hours at the crease afforded him near ideal preparation in conditions that will be similar during October’s three Tests. The talented right-hander was especially impressive against Test seamer Umesh Yadav.

The tourists climbed to 400-10 in reply to the home side’s 417 all out, which was built on the back of opener Shubman Gill’s commanding 92. Gill, too, has been named in India’s Test squad to face the Proteas.

Mulder’s vigil was a timely boost for a burgeoning career. The 21-year-old collected 10 ODIs and one Test before being hampered by injury. He recently played for Kent in the County Championship Division One, starring with bat and ball against a Surrey XI that had eight players with international experience, including Proteas opener Derek Elgar and fast bowler Morne Morkel.

India A’s second innings move to 14-0 – for a 30-run lead – at the close of the third day’s play.

South Africa A lost the series opener and the preceding limited-overs series against India A. The touring squad also features Test cricketers Lungi Ngidi, Vernon Philander, Dane Piedt and Theunis de Bruyn.

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