IND vs SL 2026 1st Test: Devdutt Padikkal Hits Maiden Test Century as India End Rain-Hit Day 1 on 288/2
Devdutt Padikkal hit his maiden Test century as India ended Day 1 at 288/2 against Sri Lanka in Galle.
India finished Day 1 of the opening Test against Sri Lanka at 288/2 after 73 overs in Galle, with Devdutt Padikkal unbeaten on 131.
Padikkal reached his maiden Test century in a memorable knock after coming into the XI in place of Sai Sudharsan. He showed patience and control as India recovered from early setbacks.
KL Rahul also played a key role with 77 before retiring hurt due to cramps. His partnership with Padikkal helped India take control of the opening day.
India suffered an early blow when Yashasvi Jaiswal was run out following a mid-pitch collision with the bowler. The opener had to leave after a mix-up that ended his stay at the crease.
Shubman Gill was the other batter dismissed during the day. Sri Lanka spinner Prabath Jayasuriya claimed the only wicket from the bowling attack, keeping the hosts in the contest.
Rishabh Pant joined Padikkal late in the day and remained at the crease when bad light and rain again affected play. India will resume on Day 2 with a strong chance to post a big first-innings total.
Rain interrupted play twice during the day, limiting the action to 73 overs. Despite the breaks, India made good use of the time available and ended the day firmly ahead.
India had won the toss and elected to bat, going with a three-spinner and two-pacer combination. Prasidh Krishna was retained in the playing XI for the Test in Galle.
Sri Lanka handed a Test debut to Keshara Nuwantha and brought Niroshan Dickwella back into the side after more than three years. The hosts will need early wickets on Day 2 to prevent India from building a huge total.
