Playing in Tests for the first time since November 2024, Devdutt Padikkal hit his maiden Test century as India dominated Sri Lanka, reaching 288/2 in 73 overs at stumps after bad light and rain brought an early close to the opening day of the first Test at the Galle International Stadium on Saturday.
Facing pacer Lahiru Kumara, Padikkal collected consecutive boundaries before driving Keshara Nuwantha to mid-off in the 57th over to get his century in 134 balls. Padikkal became the first left-handed batter since Sourav Ganguly in 2002 to score a Test hundred at number three for India, and took full advantage of his inclusion in place of the injured Sai Sudharsan. It’s also the first century hit by an Indian batter at number three since Gill hit one against Bangladesh in Chennai in September 2024.
Having opted to bat first after winning the toss in their 600th Test, India were given a fluent start by their opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal (32) and vice-captain KL Rahul, who retired hurt on 77 in the final session due to cramps. Resuming in the final session after Rahul retired hurt due to severe body cramps, Padikkal accelerated smoothly alongside captain Shubman Gill. But Padikkal looked the part to get a big score – nailing his shots, especially off the back foot.
Day One Ends Early Due to Bad Light
Bad light curtailed play on the first day, leading umpires to call an early end with 17 overs still remaining. As a result, India will continue their innings on day two, aiming for a target exceeding 500 runs. The match is set to resume at 9:45 am local time, 15 minutes earlier than usual.
