Padikkal Hits Ton On Comeback As India Piles Up 288 Against Sri Lanka in Galle Test

Devdutt Padikkal made an impressive return on Saturday, scoring his first Test century as India ended the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at 288/2 at the Galle International Cricket Stadium.

The left-handed batter remained unbeaten on 131 after a solid knock in which he gave Sri Lanka very few chances.

Padikkal was brought into the team as a late replacement for the injured Sai Sudharsan. His century has now strengthened his case to take the number three spot for India in the long run.

Padikkal came to the crease after Yashasvi Jaiswal was run out for 32 because of a misunderstanding with his partner. He and KL Rahul then put together a big partnership to put India in a comfortable position.

Padikkal got to his fifty in 81 balls, while Rahul needed 127 deliveries to bring up his 21st Test half-century.

The pair added 150 runs for the second wicket before Rahul had to leave the field on 77 after suffering from cramps shortly after tea. He hit nine fours and one six during his stay at the crease and is likely to continue his innings on day two.

Padikkal completed his century by taking a single off debutant spinner Keshara Nuwantha, showcasing his grit to play long under tough conditions.

"He was waiting for an opportunity and he's made most of it today. The pitch offered different challenges. There was assistance for seamers after the rain but he showed lots of character." said India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak.

Indian test captain Shubman Gill hit two boundaries in an over from Asitha Fernando but was dismissed for 16. He tried to hit Prabath Jayasuriya over mid-off but failed to clear the fielder.

Padikkal and Rishabh Pant stayed unbeaten until the end of the day. Pant attacked the spinners by coming down the pitch and made 27 not out, with three fours and a six.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka had a worrying moment in the morning session when Nishan Fernando was hit on the helmet while Rahul attempted a sweep shot. He left the field briefly as the team physiotherapist carried out a concussion test before returning later to field in a close position.