SL vs IND 1st Test, Day 1: Devdutt Padikkal Hits Century as India Post 288 in Galle
India produced a commanding batting display on Day 1 of the first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium, reaching 288 runs in 73 overs. Top-order batter Devdutt Padikkal led the charge with an unbeaten century, while KL Rahul contributed a solid half-century before being forced off the field due to severe cramps.
What Happened
Opting to bat, India established control across the opening day. Captain Shubman Gill fell to Sri Lanka’s left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, while opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal suffered a run-out dismissal. Despite those losses, India rebuilt through a commanding 150-run partnership for the second wicket between Devdutt Padikkal and KL Rahul.
Rahul compiled 77 runs from 162 deliveries before retiring hurt. Padikkal continued to anchor the innings, striking 12 boundaries and a six during his 178-ball stay to finish the day unbeaten on 131. Towards stumps, Padikkal added an unbroken 52-run stand alongside Rishabh Pant, who remained at the crease alongside him as play concluded.
Key Highlights
- India closed Day 1 at 288 runs in 73 overs.
- Devdutt Padikkal scored an unbeaten 131 off 178 balls, featuring 12 fours and one six.
- KL Rahul scored 77 off 162 balls before retiring hurt with severe cramps.
- Padikkal and Rahul shared a second-wicket partnership of 150 runs.
- Padikkal and Rishabh Pant added an unbeaten 52 runs before stumps.
- Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya was the sole wicket-taker among the bowlers, claiming 1/77 in 24 overs.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed run out, marking his third run-out dismissal in Test cricket.
Why This Matters
Padikkal’s century ended a drought for Indian batting at the No. 3 spot, where the team had played 35 consecutive Tests without a hundred between September 2024 and June 2026.
The fixture also marks major historical milestones for both the venue and the visiting team. Galle International Stadium became the first Asian venue to host 50 Test matches. Simultaneously, the match represents India’s 600th men’s Test appearance, which is the third-highest tally in Test cricket history.
What to Watch Next
India will resume their first innings with Devdutt Padikkal and Rishabh Pant at the crease on Day 2, while Sri Lanka will seek early breakthroughs after taking just one wicket through their bowlers on the opening day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the top scorer for India on Day 1?
Devdutt Padikkal was the top scorer, finishing the day unbeaten on 131 runs from 178 deliveries.
Why did KL Rahul leave the field?
KL Rahul retired hurt after scoring 77 runs off 162 balls due to severe cramps.
Which Sri Lankan bowlers took wickets on Day 1?
Prabath Jayasuriya was the only Sri Lankan bowler to take a wicket, dismissing Shubman Gill to finish with figures of 1/77 in 24 overs. The other dismissal was Yashasvi Jaiswal via run-out.
Source: CricTracker