GALLE, Sri Lanka | August 16, 2026
Padikkal Delivers Under Pressure
Devdutt Padikkal produced a memorable performance for India in the first Test against Sri Lanka, scoring his maiden Test century and helping the visitors seize control on the opening day in Galle.
The left-handed batter remained unbeaten on 131 runs from 178 balls as India finished Day 1 at 288/2 after being asked to bat first. Padikkal’s composed yet attacking innings included nine fours and a six, underlining his ability to handle both pace and spin in challenging overseas conditions.
A Timely Century at No. 3
Padikkal entered the playing XI after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out with a toe injury, giving him an opportunity at the crucial No. 3 position.
The 26-year-old made the opportunity count immediately. He formed an important partnership with KL Rahul after Yashasvi Jaiswal was run out for 32. Rahul went on to make a composed 77 before retiring hurt with cramps, while Padikkal continued to anchor India’s innings.
Padikkal reached his century in the second session and continued batting confidently through the remainder of the day. His innings gave India a strong platform as the visitors looked to build a substantial first-innings total.
India Finish Day 1 in Strong Position
India’s top order dominated large periods of the opening day. Jaiswal and Rahul initially provided a solid start before Jaiswal’s run-out brought Padikkal to the crease.
Rahul and Padikkal then added 150 runs, putting India firmly in control. After Rahul’s retirement, captain Shubman Gill briefly joined Padikkal but was dismissed for 16 by left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya.
Rishabh Pant was unbeaten on 27 alongside Padikkal at the close of play. India reached 288/2 from 73 overs in a rain-affected opening day.
A Major Milestone for Padikkal
The century marked Padikkal’s first Test hundred in only his third Test match. It also came on August 15, India’s Independence Day, adding another notable element to the achievement.
Padikkal’s performance has also intensified the discussion surrounding India’s No. 3 position. His assured batting in Galle provided India with the stability they have been seeking in the position.
The innings was particularly significant because it came after Padikkal’s extended absence from the Test side. His return to the team and immediate impact have strengthened his case for a more permanent role in India’s Test middle order.
India Eye Bigger First-Innings Total
With Padikkal still unbeaten and Rishabh Pant at the other end, India will resume their innings in a commanding position.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers now face the challenge of breaking the partnership early and preventing India from building an imposing first-innings total. For Padikkal, meanwhile, the second day presents an opportunity to convert his maiden century into an even bigger score.
His unbeaten 131 has already become one of the defining moments of India’s opening day in Galle and could prove crucial as the Test progresses.
Source: Associated Press (AP), Reuters, Press Trust of India (PTI)
Original Report: Supreme News Network (SSN)
