India Under-19 piled up 430 for 8 at stumps against Australia Under-19, taking a commanding 213-run lead in the first unofficial Test.

The star of the day was Lakshya Raichandani, whose double hundred anchored the innings and put the young Australians to the sword. His marathon knock was built on patience early and acceleration later.

Australia’s young bowlers toiled through long spells but could not dislodge India’s deep batting order. The hosts will look to push past 500 before declaring and putting the tourists under pressure.

The series is a key audition for the next generation of Indian talent, with selectors watching closely ahead of the U19 World Cup cycle. On this evidence, the pipeline is in rude health.

Australia’s bowlers will need early breakthroughs on day three to stay in the contest. The tour continues with more red-ball fixtures, giving both sides valuable preparation for the next U19 World Cup cycle.