Devdutt Padikkal responds to no.3 debate with maiden century in Galle
Devdutt Padikkal celebrated Independence Day with flair, recording his inaugural Test century following an extensive period off the field due to injury. His remarkable unbeaten score of 131 propelled India to a promising 288-2 on the opening day. The standout moment was the 150-run collaboration with KL Rahul for the second wicket, leaving Rishabh Pant not out on 27 as the day concluded.
Devdutt Padikkal scored a maiden Test century against Sri Lanka in their opening day Test match in Galle, India. This centurion came at the crucial position after 22 months absence due to an injury, bringing India a commanding score of 288-2. Padikkal's 134-ball hundred showcased his ability to neutralize Sri Lanka’s spinners, using his feet, quick back movements and wrists effectively.
His ton ended a 19-Test, 35-innings wait for a No. 3 century in Test cricket, strengthening his case for a longer run at the pivotal position. Padikkal’s performance came after he registered an unbeaten 131 in his previous innings, helping India post a formidable score. The left-hander also proved his domestic form, scoring an unbeaten 142 off 164 balls in India’s warm-up game in Colombo.
Despite the loss of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (32) to a run-out and Gill (16) to a poor shot, India's resurgence was led by Padikkal and KL Rahul. Rahul, who came in to replace Rahul, added 150 off 255 balls for the second wicket before retiring hurt with cramps. The duo’s partnership of 150 runs for the second wicket was crucial in keeping India’s momentum going.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
