Galle, August 15, 2026: Devdutt Padikkal marked his Test comeback in spectacular fashion, scoring his maiden century as India closed the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka on 288-2 at the Galle International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
The left-hander remained unbeaten on 131 after producing a composed and chanceless innings to put India in a commanding position after captain Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bat first in Sri Lanka’s landmark 600th Test.
Padikkal, recalled to the Indian side as a late replacement for the injured Sai Sudharsan, faced 178 deliveries and struck 12 fours and a six. The 26-year-old had last played a Test in November 2024 but strengthened his case for a permanent place at No. 3 after scoring a century in a warm-up match in Colombo last week.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised the batsman’s temperament and ability to adapt to the conditions.
“He was waiting for an opportunity and he’s made most of it today,” Kotak said after play.
“The pitch offered different challenges. There was assistance for seamers after the rain but he showed lots of character.”
Padikkal came together with KL Rahul after opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was run out for 32 following a mix-up between the wickets.
The pair then launched a strong recovery, adding 150 runs for the second wicket. Padikkal reached his half-century from 81 balls, while Rahul took 127 deliveries to register his 21st Test fifty.
Rahul eventually retired hurt on 77 shortly after tea because of cramps. His innings included nine fours and a six, and he is expected to resume batting on the second day.
Padikkal completed his century with a single off debutant spinner Keshara Nuwantha, driving the ball towards mid-off before raising his bat to acknowledge the applause.
Sri Lanka struggled to convert several opportunities created by their bowlers, with fielding coach Jordon Gregory admitting that missed chances had proved costly.
“We were consistent with our areas for the most part of the game. The spinners in particular created some opportunities but didn’t have much luck,” he said.
“Credit to Padikkal in particular for the manner in which he batted. It was only his third Test and he looked solid.”
Gill, meanwhile, made a brief contribution of 16. After striking two boundaries in an over from Asitha Fernando, the Indian captain attempted to loft Prabath Jayasuriya but failed to clear mid-off.
Padikkal was joined by Rishabh Pant, who remained unbeaten on 27 at stumps. Pant attacked the Sri Lankan spinners with several advances down the pitch and struck three fours and a six.
The day was briefly overshadowed by an injury to Sri Lankan fielder Nishan Fernando, who was struck on the helmet while Rahul attempted a sweep during the morning session. The team physiotherapist conducted a concussion assessment before Fernando later returned to the field in a close-catching position.
Rain restricted play to 73 of the scheduled 90 overs. To compensate for the lost time, play on Sunday will begin 15 minutes earlier.
A sizeable crowd attended the historic fixture after Sri Lanka Cricket announced free entry for spectators as Galle hosted its 50th Test.
India will resume on the second morning in a strong position, with Padikkal and Pant at the crease and the visitors looking to build a sizeable first-innings total.
India have not lost a Test against Sri Lanka since 2015.
