Ruturaj Gaikwad’s century, Arshad Khan’s heroics guide India A to thrilling win

India A opened their tri-nation ODI series campaign with a dramatic eight-run victory over Sri Lanka A in Dambulla on Tuesday. After recovering from an early batting collapse through a magnificent century from Ruturaj Gaikwad, the visitors held their nerve in the closing stages as Arshad Khan produced a match-winning spell to seal a memorable win.

Gaikwad and Tilak rescue India A after shaky start

India A were rocked early after losing Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Prabhsimran Singh cheaply. Priyansh Arya looked set for a big score before his innings ended in a bizarre run-out, leaving the visitors under pressure.

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Gaikwad then took control of the innings with a composed and mature knock. The right-hander scored 101 off 114 deliveries and found an able partner in Tilak Varma, who contributed 60 runs. The duo added 150 runs for the fourth wicket, completely changing the course of the innings after the early setbacks.

Their partnership laid the foundation for a strong total, while Ayush Badoni and Suryansh Shedge chipped in with useful late runs to help India A reach 277/6 in their 50 overs.

Arshad Khan sparks stunning turnaround at the death

Sri Lanka A made a confident start to the chase through Niroshan Dickwella and Avishka Fernando, who shared a 93-run opening stand. Sahan Arachchige further strengthened the hosts' chances with a fighting 74 as the target came within reach.

With Sri Lanka A needing just 10 runs from the final two overs and three wickets in hand, the match appeared to be slipping away from India A. However, Arshad Khan turned the contest on its head.

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The left-arm seamer trapped Vijayakanth Viyaskanth lbw in the 49th over before India A secured the crucial run-out of Wanuja Sahan. Arshad then returned in the final over and removed three more batters as Sri Lanka A lost their last four wickets in the space of just 10 deliveries.

The hosts were eventually bowled out for 269 in 48.5 overs, handing India A an unlikely but well-earned victory. While Gaikwad's century provided the platform, Arshad's late burst ensured India A started the tri-series on a winning note.