Ananya Lohia , Dambulla - Ruturaj Gaikwad silenced his critics with a timely century as India A recovered from an early batting collapse to post 277/6 against Sri Lanka A in the opening match of the A Tri-Nation Series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Tuesday.

Walking in during the fifth over after the dismissal of Prabhsimran Singh, Gaikwad anchored the innings with a composed yet authoritative knock of 101 off 114 balls. The right-hander combined caution with aggression, steadily rebuilding the innings after India A lost young opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran in quick succession. After taking time to settle, Gaikwad accelerated alongside captain Tilak Varma, regularly finding the boundary and keeping the scoreboard moving. He brought up his 21st List-A century in the 44th over, reaching the milestone off 112 deliveries before eventually departing for 101.

The century comes as a significant boost for Gaikwad, who endured a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign with Chennai Super Kings. The CSK captain scored 337 runs in 14 matches at an average of 28.08 and a strike rate below 125 as the five-time champions failed to qualify for the playoffs. India A were in trouble early after 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made a brisk 14 off 12 balls before falling. The dismissals of Prabhsimran and Priyansh soon followed, leaving the visitors struggling.

Gaikwad and Tilak then staged a remarkable recovery, stitching together a crucial 150-run partnership for the fourth wicket. While Gaikwad led the charge with his century, Tilak contributed a valuable 60 off 97 balls to steady the innings. Earlier, Tilak won the toss and elected to bat first. Thanks to the rescue act from Gaikwad and Tilak, India A recovered from a precarious position to finish with a competitive total of 277/6 in their allotted 50 overs.