Puducherry, Oct. 2 -- Yash Rathod and Shams Mulani put together a gritty 36-plus-over eighth-wicket partnership as India A held their nerve to secure a thrilling draw against Australia A on the fourth and final day of the second four-day match in Puducherry on Friday.

The result saw India A clinch the two-match series 1-0, having registered a commanding 162-run victory in the opening match.

Chasing 365, India A resumed the day at 28/1 and were reduced to 199/7 in 60.2 overs, but a determined lower-order fightback helped them reach 310/9 at stumps and secure a hard-fought draw.

Yash Rathod (80 off 138 balls) and Shams Mulani (29 off 131) then produced a crucial 85-run eighth-wicket stand, occupying the crease for more than 36 overs. The...