India A got off to a shaky start in their ODI Tri-Series opener against Sri Lanka A, but a brilliant partnership between Ruturaj Gaikwad and Tilak Varma completely turned the match around and helped India post a competitive total.

After being asked to bat first, India A were in trouble early, losing both openers for just 16 runs. The situation worsened when the third wicket fell at 69, putting Sri Lanka A firmly in control of the game.

However, Gaikwad and Tilak stitched together a match-defining 150-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Gaikwad played a composed knock of 101 runs off 113 balls, bringing up his 21st List A century with six fours and three sixes. Tilak Varma supported him well with 60 runs off 97 balls, including two fours.

Their partnership not only stabilized the innings but also shifted momentum back in India A’s favor, breaking Sri Lanka A’s early dominance.

In the final phase of the innings, quick contributions from Ayush Badoni (24 off 18 balls) and Suryansh Shedge (26 off 14 balls, unbeaten) helped India A accelerate the scoring.

India A eventually finished at 277/6 in 50 overs, setting Sri Lanka A a target of 278 runs.