The Indian team management breathed a sigh of relief as Tilak Varma ticked all the right boxes on his return to competitive cricket following lower abdominal surgery.
Making his comeback in a high-scoring T20 World Cup warm-up match, Tilak played a key role as India A defeated the United States of America by 38 runs in Navi Mumbai, showcasing both batting depth and fitness readiness ahead of the global event.
Batting first, India A followed the aggressive template popularised by the senior Indian side. Wicketkeeper-batter Narayan Jagadeesan stole the spotlight with a sensational 104 off just 55 balls, laced with 11 fours and five sixes.
He stitched together a rapid 113-run partnership with Tilak Varma, who looked fluent and confident during his stay at the crease.
Tilak scored 38 off 24 deliveries, striking three boundaries and two towering sixes, particularly targeting left-arm spinners Harmeet Singh and Nosthush Kenjige.
What stood out more than the runs was Tilak’s comfort and freedom of movement. There was no sign of discomfort as he rotated strike, played attacking shots, and moved sharply in the field.
His athleticism was on display when he sprinted backwards to take a well-judged catch, followed by another safe grab later in the innings.
Tilak also rolled his arm over to pick up a wicket, further underlining his all-round fitness.
India A skipper Ayush Badoni added finishing touches with an unbeaten 60 off 26 balls, while Jagadeesan fell off the final ball of the 19th over.
The hosts posted an imposing 238 for 3 in 20 overs. In response, the USA put up a spirited fight, with Sanjay Krishnamurthi’s quick 41 being the highlight, but they eventually folded for 200 in 19.4 overs.
Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi impressed with three wickets, while fast bowler Mayank Yadav returned to competitive cricket after a long injury layoff, though he looked rusty and went wicketless. Riyan Parag also marked his comeback but had limited involvement.
Tilak Varma’s return is a timely boost for India ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. Having missed the New Zealand T20I series due to injury, the stylish left-hander now appears set to reclaim his No.
3 spot, with selectors closely monitoring his form and fitness in the remaining warm-up games.
