Ruturaj Gaikwad’s magnificent century anchored India A to a nail-biting four-wicket victory against South Africa A in the opening unofficial ODI held in Rajkot. Successfully chasing a challenging target of 286, India A secured the win with just three balls remaining. The skipper’s composed performance was instrumental, laying a strong foundation for the chase. Gaikwad, opening the innings, demonstrated exquisite timing and control, hitting 12 boundaries during his match-defining hundred. He formed an effective opening partnership of 64 runs with Abhishek Sharma, who provided early aggression with his 31 off 25 balls before departing. After an early setback with Riyan Parag’s dismissal, Gaikwad found crucial support from Tilak Varma. Together, they forged a vital 89-run partnership for the third wicket, stabilizing the innings during the middle overs. Varma contributed a patient 39 from 58 deliveries. Even after Gaikwad’s departure in the 41st over with India needing 67 runs, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Nishant Sindhu remained calm. Their unbroken 65-run stand for the sixth wicket saw India A home comfortably. Reddy scored a fluent 37, and Sindhu added a vital 29. Earlier, South Africa A had posted 285 for 9, thanks to strong middle-order contributions from Delano Potgieter (90) and Dian Forrester (77), who rescued the innings from a precarious 53 for 5. Bjorn Fortuin also played a crucial cameo of 59. Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna were the initial tormentors for India A’s bowling attack. This victory gives India A a 1-0 lead in the series.
