RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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Devdutt Padikkal's sensational innings came to an end in the opening Test against Sri Lanka as the India batter was dismissed for a magnificent 167 off 230 balls in Galle. Padikkal, who had struck his maiden Test century on Day 1, continued his remarkable run on the rain-affected second day and went on to register his first Test score beyond 150. The left-hander smashed 15 fours and a six during his memorable knock, anchoring India's innings and keeping the visitors in a commanding position despite repeated interruptions caused by rain. Padikkal joins Dravid and Pujara in elite list
With his 150-plus score, Padikkal became only the third Indian batter to score 150 or more against Sri Lanka from No. 3. He joined the likes of Rahul Dravid, who scored 177 in Ahmedabad in 2009, and Cheteshwar Pujara, who made 153 in Galle in 2017. Padikkal's innings was particularly impressive considering the lengthy interruptions. The second day's play eventually began after a delay of around four and a half hours due to rain, with further weather disruptions continuing to affect the Test. Padikkal falls after leaving crease early
Sri Lanka finally got the breakthrough they desperately needed when Prabath Jayasuriya dismissed the set batter. Padikkal came down the track, but Jayasuriya spotted the move and pushed the delivery quicker and flatter around off stump. Padikkal missed the ball, allowing wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella to collect it and whip off the bails in an instant. The 24-year-old received a standing ovation from the Galle crowd as he walked back to the pavilion, while his India teammates also stood up to applaud his superb effort. Padikkal was handed the No. 3 role following Sudharsan's injury and responded with a career-defining performance. His maiden century also made him the first Indian batter to score a Test century on Independence Day, while he became only the second Indian cricketer after Virat Kohli to score an international century on August 15. India lose Pant and Rahul after play resumes
Once play finally resumed, India suffered two quick setbacks. Rishabh Pant was dismissed for 39 off 62 balls, caught by Sonal Dinusha at short mid-off while attempting to play Keshara Nuwantha. KL Rahul, who had retired hurt with cramps on Day 1, returned to the crease but could not convert his impressive start into a century. He was dismissed for 82 off 175 balls, with Nishan Fernando taking a sharp catch at short leg off Nuwantha. 133275714
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