Sooryavanshi, Tilak Varma Clash With Sri Lanka A Players After Super Over

DAMBULLA – India A opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and captain Tilak Varma were involved in heated exchanges with Sri Lanka A players during and after a dramatic Super Over defeat in the tri-series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on June 15.

What began as a thrilling contest ended in controversy, with disagreements over whether a Super Over should be played, questions surrounding a crucial no-ball decision, and a confrontation involving 15-year-old Sooryavanshi after Sri Lanka A secured victory.

The match ended in a tie after Sri Lanka A matched India A’s total of 265 on the final ball of their innings. However, uncertainty emerged over whether fading light would allow a Super Over to decide the result.

Tilak Varma, captain of India A, immediately approached the on-field umpires and engaged in lengthy discussions, arguing that the tie-breaker should proceed. Several India A players and members of the Indian support staff joined the discussions before officials eventually agreed to continue with the Super Over.

Tensions rose again after Sri Lanka A completed their Super Over. On the final delivery, India A fast bowler Arshad Khan bowled a waist-high full toss that initially appeared to end the over without a run being scored. Players had begun leaving the field, and Sooryavanshi was padded up and preparing to bat when the umpires ruled the delivery a no-ball.

The decision triggered another heated discussion between Tilak Varma and the match officials, adding to the growing tension between the two teams.

The situation escalated after Sri Lanka A clinched victory. Sooryavanshi, who scored five runs off two balls in the Super Over, appeared visibly frustrated as he walked past the celebrating Sri Lankan players. Television footage appeared to show contact between the young India A batter and a Sri Lanka A player before others stepped in. Sooryavanshi was also seen exchanging words with Sri Lankan players before leaving the field.

The confrontation overshadowed a closely fought match that ended in a tie and was decided in a Super Over.

Sri Lanka A eventually won the Super Over to move to the top of the points table and strengthen their chances of reaching the final. (IANS)