Our Bureau
Galle
Devdutt Padikkal’s career-best 167 powered India to 460 for nine on a rain-hit second day of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Sunday, putting the visitors firmly in control despite a late fightback from the hosts’ spinners.
Padikkal, playing his first Test since November 2024, converted his overnight score into a commanding maiden Test century and continued to attack Sri Lanka’s bowling with confidence. His 167 included 15 fours and a six, providing the backbone of India’s imposing first-innings total.
The left-hander’s dismissal, however, triggered a strong response from Sri Lanka. Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya claimed four wickets, while debutant Keshara Nuwantha took three as Sri Lanka prevented India from running away with the game. India lost seven wickets for 172 runs after the rain interruption.
Dhruv Jurel provided valuable support with a brisk 51, while KL Rahul, who had retired hurt on 77 because of cramps on the opening day, returned to the crease and advanced to 82 before being dismissed. Rishabh Pant contributed 39.
Persistent rain severely restricted play, with only 43 overs possible on Sunday after the morning session was washed out. Despite the interruptions, India maintained a scoring rate of close to four runs an over and ended the day with Kuldeep Yadav unbeaten on 12 and Prasidh Krishna on one.
India had already established a strong position on the opening day, reaching 288 for two before rain and bad light brought play to an early close. Padikkal’s century and Rahul’s substantial contribution gave the visitors a platform to build a sizeable first-innings total, putting pressure on the host.