Watch: India A players fumed as umpire turns down appeal against Marcus Harris

The second unofficial Test between India A and Australia A in Melbourne witnessed a controversial umpiring decision that left the Indian team fuming. On Day 2 of the match, Australia A opener Marcus Harris survived a close call for being dismissed, sparking anger from the visitors and raising questions about the decision-making process on the field.

The incident occurred when Harris, batting on 48, faced off-spinner Tanush Kotian. The off-spinner's delivery drifted into the left-hander and sharply turned away, ultimately landing in the hands of the fielder at first slip. However, the umpire ruled that Harris had not edged the ball, much to the shock of the Indian team, who were convinced the ball had taken the edge of the bat.

Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side were left visibly frustrated with the umpire's decision to give Harris the benefit of the doubt. The visitors firmly believed that the ball had carried to the slips, and that Harris should have been given out. This controversial call proved to be a turning point in the match, as Harris went on to score 74 runs before being dismissed by Prasidh Krishna.

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India A lead by 11 runs after end of Day 2

This decision was in Harris' favor as he is one of the players being closely monitored by the Australian selectors for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The opening slot is a key area of concern for the Australian team, and Harris' performance in this unofficial series is being closely watched as a potential solution.

The match continued to see fluctuations, with Australia A suffering an early collapse on Day 2. Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar, and Prasidh all chipped in with wickets, reducing the home team to 84/5. However, a 68-run partnership between Harris and Jimmy Peirson helped steady the Australian innings and take them over the 200-run mark, eventually finishing with 223 runs in the first innings.