Endophytic Alcaligenes faecalis mediated redesigning of host defense itinerary against Sclerotium rolfsii through induction of phenolics and antioxidant enzymes

•Cell wall dissolution at the collar region indexed initiation of fungal infection.•Instant triggering of oxidative burst pathway activated hydrogen peroxide production.•Hydrogen peroxide augmentation further triggered phenylpropanoid pathway.•The elevated peroxide level was lowered by peroxidase and flavonoids.•Peroxidase mediated flavonoid oxidation enhanced lignification and pathogen ingress.