India finished the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at 288/2 after 73 overs, with Devdutt Padikkal unbeaten on a magnificent 131. The visitors, who won the toss and chose to bat first, enjoyed a largely dominant day at the Galle International Stadium despite rain interruptions late in the evening.
Padikkal’s composed century was the standout moment of the day as the left-hander made the most of his opportunity at the Test level. He found excellent support from KL Rahul and later Rishabh Pant as India ended the day firmly in control.
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s bizarre run-out gives Sri Lanka an early opening
India made a confident start but suffered an unexpected setback when Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed for 32 in unusual circumstances. A mix-up with KL Rahul resulted in Jaiswal being run out after a bizarre mid-pitch collision involving the batter and bowler. What looked like a promising opening partnership came to an abrupt end, giving Sri Lanka an early reason to celebrate.
The dismissal, however, did little to unsettle India. Padikkal walked in and settled into his innings with patience, gradually taking control of the situation alongside Rahul.
Devdutt Padikkal and KL Rahul build a commanding stand
The second-wicket partnership between Padikkal and Rahul became the foundation of India’s strong first-day total. The pair put together a superb 150-run stand, combining caution with well-timed attacking strokes as Sri Lanka struggled to create consistent pressure. Padikkal was particularly impressive in the middle session. Rather than rushing towards his milestone, he trusted his defence and punished loose deliveries whenever they came his way. His innings eventually carried him past three figures, bringing up his maiden Test century in memorable fashion.
Rahul, meanwhile, played the ideal supporting role. The experienced batter scored a patient 77 before being forced to retire hurt shortly before tea after suffering a forearm cramp. His departure temporarily interrupted India’s momentum, but the visitors still had plenty of batting strength remaining.
Shubman Gill falls, but Rishabh Pant adds late momentum
India suffered another blow when captain Shubman Gill was dismissed for 16 shortly after Rahul’s retirement. That brought Rishabh Pant to the crease, and the wicketkeeper-batter immediately injected fresh energy into the innings. Pant remained unbeaten on 27 at the close, including a six that highlighted his intent. Alongside Padikkal, he ensured India continued to push the scoring rate before persistent rain disrupted the final session.
The weather ultimately brought an early end to the day’s proceedings, leaving India at 288/2 after 73 overs. Sri Lanka’s bowlers found little assistance from the Galle surface, which remained relatively good for batting. Prabath Jayasuriya was the only bowler to claim a wicket for the hosts, finishing the day with 1/77 from 24. overs.
