Devdutt Padikkal Shines in Test Comeback Against Sri Lanka, Draws Praise from Venkatesh Prasad
Devdutt Padikkal marked his return to Test cricket with a commanding batting display in the opening Test match between India and Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium. Returning to the longest format after nearly two years away, the 26-year-old top-order batter compiled an aggregate of over 200 runs across both innings, drawing detailed appraisal from former India fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad.
What Happened
Padikkal, who last played a Test match in November 2024, delivered an impactful performance batting at number three for India in Galle. In the first innings, the Karnataka left-hander registered 167 runs from 230 deliveries, striking 15 boundaries and a six before being stumped off the bowling of Sri Lankan spinner Prabath Jayasuriya. He backed up his first-innings century with a composed 44 runs in the second innings.
Speaking on Sony Sports Network, former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad praised Padikkal’s application, mental approach, and technical execution across the match. Prasad observed that Padikkal remained solid in defense, showed disciplined shot selection, and played straight through the line without playing across the deliveries. He noted that the batter used his feet effectively, countered spin efficiently, and executed strokes on both sides of the wicket.
Prasad added that Padikkal came into the series carrying significant momentum after accumulating high run tallies in the domestic circuit and shorter formats, which was further bolstered by a century in the warm-up fixture. Prasad also highlighted the tactical benefit of having a left-handed batter in the lineup and noted that Padikkal remains exceptionally dedicated to his craft.
Key Highlights
- Strong First-Innings Hundred: Padikkal compiled 167 runs from 230 balls, featuring 15 fours and one six.
- Consistent Across Innings: Followed up his hundred with an innings of 44 in the second turn at the crease.
- Elite Company: By crossing 200 total runs in the match, Padikkal became only the third Indian batter to score 200-plus runs at number three in an away Test, alongside Rahul Dravid and Sanjay Manjrekar.
- Expert Assessment: Venkatesh Prasad commended his focus, footwork against spin, disciplined shot selection, and serious approach to batting.
- Lead-In Form: His Test display followed strong runs in domestic cricket, shorter formats, and a century in the pre-series warm-up game.
Why This Matters
Padikkal’s batting in Galle represents a successful re-entry into India’s Test squad following an extended absence from the international format. By accumulating more than 200 runs batting at number three away from home, he entered rare company in Indian cricket history alongside Rahul Dravid and Sanjay Manjrekar. Furthermore, his presence provides India with a stable left-handed option in the upper batting order.
What to Watch Next
India and Sri Lanka will square off in the decisive second Test match at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, which is scheduled to begin on Sunday, August 23. Padikkal will look to maintain his batting form as India heads into the series decider.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many runs did Devdutt Padikkal score in the Galle Test?
Padikkal scored 167 runs off 230 balls in the first innings and added 44 runs in the second innings, producing a match aggregate of more than 200 runs.
Which milestone did Padikkal achieve during the match?
Padikkal became only the third Indian batter to accumulate 200 or more runs at the number three position in an away Test match, joining Rahul Dravid and Sanjay Manjrekar.
When was Devdutt Padikkal’s previous Test appearance?
Prior to the Galle Test against Sri Lanka, Padikkal’s last appearance in Test cricket was in November 2024.
What did Venkatesh Prasad say about Padikkal’s batting?
Venkatesh Prasad commended Padikkal’s solid defense, shot selection, ability to play through the line and against spin, noting that he demonstrated immense concentration and is extremely serious about his batting.
Source: Crictracker