Tilak Varma clears fitness test, India A beat USA by 38 runs

The Indian team management can finally relax now that Tilak Varma has proven his fitness. Returning to the field on Monday after recovering from stomach surgery, he performed exceptionally well for India A. The squad, filled with prominent IPL names, secured a comfortable 38-run victory over the USA in a high-scoring exhibition match. India A adopted the senior team’s aggressive batting style, led by wicketkeeper Narayan Jagadeesan, who blazed his way to 104 runs from just 55 deliveries, including 11 boundaries and five maximums.

In response, the USA put up a brave fight on a batter-friendly pitch, eventually reaching a total of 200. Their standout performer was Sanjay Krishnamurthi, who played a quick-fire innings of 41 from 18 balls. On the bowling side, leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi improved his chances of replacing the injured Washington Sundar by claiming three wickets.

For coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav, the primary goal was to monitor Varma’s physical condition after his three-week rehabilitation program in Bengaluru. The elegant left-hander scored 38 runs off 24 balls, notably hitting two massive sixes against the American spinners. He showed zero signs of pain while batting and was equally impressive in the field, where he made a difficult running catch and even managed to pick up a wicket with his own bowling.

Since Varma passed this test with ease and is set to reclaim his usual number three position, Sanju Samson’s spot in the squad is now in serious jeopardy. Following five poor performances in a row, Samson may lose his place to Ishan Kishan.

The match also featured the return of Riyan Parag, though he barely got a chance to participate as captain Ayush Badoni dominated the final overs with a rapid 60 runs. Meanwhile, fast bowler Mayank Yadav showed flashes of great speed with a slightly modified bowling action, though he appeared a bit out of practice after his long time away from the game.