After electing to bat first, India were rocked early as Sri Lanka reduced them to 81/4 in the 19th over. With the innings under pressure, Dravid, the son of former India captain Rahul Dravid, combined with Rajput to produce a match-defining 145-run stand for the fifth wicket.
Dravid led the recovery with an aggressive 87 off just 67 balls, smashing nine boundaries and a six, while Rajput complemented him with a composed 76 from 81 deliveries that also featured nine fours and one maximum. Their partnership revived India’s innings and put the visitors on course for a challenging total.
Despite the strong platform, Sri Lanka fought back effectively in the closing stages, bowling India out for 285 in 47.2 overs.
Gimhan Mendis was the standout performer with the ball, producing a superb spell of 5/41 in 8.2 overs to halt India’s momentum and finish with a five-wicket haul. His effort ensured Sri Lanka kept the target within reach after Dravid and Rajput had threatened to take the game away.
