India A produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat the United States by 38 runs in a high-scoring T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match, with N Jagadeesan and Tilak Varma stealing the spotlight.
Jagadeesan sets the tone
Batting first, India A went on the offensive from the outset. Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper-batter Jagadeesan was in imperious touch, blasting a sensational 104 off just 55 balls, an innings studded with 11 fours and five sixes. His aggressive knock laid the foundation for a formidable total and put the USA bowlers under relentless pressure.
India A’s intent mirrored the senior team’s fearless approach, with boundaries flowing freely on a flat surface.
Tilak Varma clears fitness test
A major positive for Indian cricket was Tilak Varma’s successful return to competitive action following lower abdominal surgery. After completing a three-week return-to-play protocol at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, the Hyderabad left-hander looked fluent and fearless.
Tilak scored a brisk 38 off 24 balls, taking on left-arm spinners Harmeet Singh and Nosthush Kenjige, smashing a couple of sixes and multiple boundaries—particularly targeting Harmeet. Crucially, he showed no signs of discomfort while batting.
His impact extended beyond the bat. Tilak took a sharp running catch to dismiss Saiteja Mukkamalla, later bowled in the match, picked up a wicket and held on to another catch—ticking every box in terms of match fitness and all-round readiness.
USA fight, but fall short
Chasing a stiff target, the USA put up a spirited effort, finishing on 200. Indian-origin batter Sanjay Krishnamurthi was the standout with a rapid 41 off 18 balls, but the required rate proved too steep.
Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi impressed with the ball, claiming three wickets and strengthening his case as a potential backup option should Washington Sundar fail to regain full fitness.
Other notable performances
India A skipper Ayush Badoni played a blistering cameo, smashing 60 off just 24 balls, while Riyan Parag marked his return with limited opportunities. Fast bowler Mayank Yadav, back after a long injury layoff, showed raw pace despite some rust, ending with figures of 0/37 in three overs.
Overall, it was a near-perfect outing for India A—highlighted by Jagadeesan’s explosive century and Tilak Varma’s confidence-boosting comeback—just days ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.
