{
  "id": 310623,
  "title": "Why Devdutt Padikkal's fluent ton allows India to breathe easy",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/08/why-devdutt-padikkals-fluent-ton-allows-india-to-breathe-easy",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-08T13:02:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Times of India",
    "slug": "times-of-india",
    "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/india-vs-sri-lanka/why-devdutt-padikkals-fluent-ton-allows-india-to-breathe-easy/articleshow/133051615.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Diving into the story of Devdutt Padikkal's recent 142-run innings for India in Colombo, it's clear that his fluent ton has put India's mind at ease. Despite not being a starter initially, Padikkal's assured footwork and smart use of the crease soon had the crowd buzzing. With Sai Sudharsan's slight concern, the management quickly focused on getting Padikkal into the lineup and boy, did he deliver.\n\nRight from the start, Padikkal showcased his confidence by scoring briskly even against spinners Ramesh Mendis and Keshara Nuwantha. His balanced strokes and big strides made for an impressive display. The 26-year-old, who hasn't played a Test for India since November 2024, has been making waves with India A and Karnataka in domestic cricket. He's been working hard on his game against spin, and it paid off big time in Colombo.\n\nHis innings came just in time as Sudharsan's chances faded away, leaving Padikkal ready to step up. With August 15 approaching, India won't have to worry about the No. 3 spot, thanks to Padikkal's remarkable performance. His journey to this point has been a testament to his hard work, starting from his surprise inclusion in the Test squad in 2024 due to injury concerns. His first knock in the Ranji Trophy proved his worth, and since then, he's been hitting sixes and boundaries consistently. Now, with two Tests in Sri Lanka on the horizon, Padikkal has a golden opportunity to secure his place in India's batting order.",
  "summary": "With Sai Sudharsan all but ruled out of the Sri Lanka series, Devdutt Padikkal seized his chance, scoring a fluent 142 at Colombo’s Nondescript Cricket Club during the warm-up fixture. Displaying assured footwork, confidence against both spin and pace, and solid technique, Padikkal’s performance underscores his readiness for India’s No. 3 spot.",
  "key_points": [
    "Devdutt Padikkal scores 142 runs in Colombo, easing India's mind",
    "26-year-old adapts well to spin bowling, impresses with footwork",
    "August 15 approaching, Padikkal secures No. 3 spot for India"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "ESPNcricinfo",
        "title": "Padikkal 142 headlines India's reply",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/08/padikkal-142-headlines-indias-reply",
        "published": "2026-08-08T13:04:35.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}