Dambulla, June 9 -- Ruturaj Gaikwad's superb century and a collective bowling effort powered India A to a hard-fought eight-run win over Sri Lanka A in the opening fixture of the Tri-Nation A Series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Tuesday.

After being put under pressure early, India A posted a competitive 277/6 in 50 overs, thanks largely to Gaikwad's composed 101 from 114 deliveries, laced with six boundaries and three sixes. The visitors were reduced to 16/2 in the initial stages before the opener anchored the innings with a captain's knock.

Gaikwad's innings provided stability at a crucial juncture, while contributions from the middle and lower order ensured India A finished strongly. Captain Tilak Varma chipped in w...