India began their Sri Lanka Test campaign on a high note as Devdutt Padikkal celebrated his return to the longest format with a brilliant century on the opening day of the first Test at the Galle International Stadium.
Colombo: India began their Sri Lanka Test campaign on a high note as Devdutt Padikkal celebrated his return to the longest format with a brilliant century on the opening day of the first Test at the Galle International Stadium. A crucial partnership with KL Rahul helped India take firm control of the match after an early setback.
India’s batting unit displayed confidence and composure throughout the opening two sessions as Sri Lankan bowlers struggled to create breakthroughs. Apart from the unfortunate dismissal of Yashasvi Jaiswal through a run-out, the visitors dominated proceedings and kept the scoreboard moving at a steady pace.
After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, India’s opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul provided a solid foundation. The duo added 47 runs for the first wicket before a rare on-field incident brought an end to Jaiswal’s innings.
While attempting a run, Jaiswal collided with Sri Lankan spinner Prabath Jayasuriya and was run out after scoring 32 runs. The young opener faced 37 deliveries and struck five boundaries during his short but aggressive stay at the crease. Despite losing Jaiswal early, India maintained control as the top order adapted well to the conditions and kept Sri Lanka’s bowling attack under pressure.
Walking in after Jaiswal’s dismissal, Devdutt Padikkal delivered a memorable performance under pressure. The left-handed batter combined patience with attacking stroke play and formed a massive second-wicket partnership with KL Rahul. The duo added more than 150 runs together, shifting the momentum completely in India’s favour and frustrating the Sri Lankan bowlers.
Padikkal’s century became the biggest highlight of the opening day as he made a remarkable return to the India Test team after nearly 18 months. His last Test appearance came during India’s tour of Australia in Perth in 2024.
The Karnataka batter completed his century by taking a single off K. Nuvwantha’s bowling. His hundred came off 134 deliveries and included nine fours and one six, showcasing his ability to handle pressure at the international level. The innings strengthened India’s batting depth and provided a major boost to Padikkal’s position in the Test setup.
Experienced batter KL Rahul played a key role in building India’s dominant position. He supported Padikkal during the crucial partnership and ensured that Sri Lanka failed to make any significant comeback.
Rahul scored 77 runs before leaving the field, while his partnership with Padikkal laid the foundation for a big first-innings total. At the tea break, India had reached 197 runs for the loss of one wicket, reflecting the visitors’ dominance in the first half of the opening day.
By the latest update, India had reached 220 runs for the loss of one wicket after 57 overs. Devdutt Padikkal remained unbeaten after completing his century, while captain Shubman Gill was at the crease on six runs. With a strong batting platform already established, India will look to continue the momentum and convert the promising start into a massive first-innings score.
Padikkal’s comeback hundred has emerged as a major positive for Team India, especially as the side continues to strengthen its batting options for upcoming Test assignments. His performance at Galle has once again highlighted the depth of Indian cricket and the competition for places in the Test squad.
