15 August,2026 07:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Devdutt Padikkal (Pic: PTI)
Devdutt Padikkal made a memorable return to Test cricket, striking an unbeaten 131 to guide India to a commanding 288 for two at stumps on the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka on Saturday.
Playing his first Test since featuring against Australia in Perth in 2024, the 26-year-old left-hander showcased his growing maturity at the international level, reaching his maiden Test century in just 134 deliveries.
At the close of play, Rishabh Pant stood alongside Padikkal on 27, with the pair building an unbroken 52-run partnership for the third wicket.
Earlier in the day, Padikkal combined with Karnataka teammate KL Rahul for a dominant 150-run second-wicket stand before Rahul retired hurt on 77 off 162 balls due to cramps.
Padikkal set the tone early, racing to his first 20 runs at near a run-a-ball before finding a steady tempo.
Padikkal took on Sri Lanka's key spinner, Prabath Jayasuriya, bringing up his half-century in 81 balls before stepping out to launch Jayasuriya over long-on for six and piercing the covers for four.
At the other end, Rahul played a patient, solid innings, bringing up his half-century off 127 balls, accented by a straight-driven six off Jayasuriya.
The Indian batters navigated an hour-and-twenty-minute rain delay before the second session without losing focus. Padikkal, who had previously scored 142 in a warm-up fixture against SLC XI in Colombo, made full use of his opportunity after replacing the injured Sai Sudharsan.
He eventually reached his milestone century by pushing Lahiru Kumara to mid-off for a quick single.
Sri Lanka's lone success via the bowler came when Jayasuriya flighted one to entice Shubman Gill, whose mistimed lofted shot was caught by Lahiru Udara.
The hosts' only other breakthrough was an early run-out following a miscommunication between Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal (37), leaving Jaiswal stranded after colliding with the bowler.
Despite those interruptions, India's top order capitalised on a true pitch to establish total authority on Day 1. India will face Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series with a WTC final spot on the line.
