Krishnagiri (Kerala), Aug 27 (IANS): Axar Patel struck an unbeaten 69-run knock as India A took a vital 157-run first innings lead against South Africa A at stumps though rain played spoilsport majorly on Day 3 of the second and final four-day cricket match at the Krishnagiri Stadium here on Thursday.

Tail-enders Patel and Karn Sharma (19 not out) remained unbeaten at stumps after adding crucial runs on a rain-marred day as India ended the day at 417/8 in reply to South Africa A's first innings score of 260.

Only 22 overs were bowled on Thursday as the players had to leave the field quite a number of times due to the showers.

India A resumed at 342/6 after two hours or morning showers. Overnight batsmen Ankush Bains (35) and Patel came in to bat to make sure the hosts extend their lead as much as possible.

But in the second over, pacer Hardus Viljoen got the wicket of Bains. India A received a double blow when incoming batsman Jayant Yadav was clean bowled by right-arm spinner Dane Piedt for a duck with India A on 348.

Incoming batsmen Karn gave good support to Patel as the duo held the innings on a wet pitch to take team's score past the 400-run mark. The two hit an unbeaten 69-run partnership for the ninth wicket to end day with a handsome lead for the hosts.

Brief scores: South Africa A 260 vs India A 417/8 (Axar Patel 69 not out; Dane Piedt 5/191).