Devdutt Padikkal delivered an unbeaten masterclass in spin-bowling counterattack, registering his maiden Test century on Day 1 of the first Test between India and Sri Lanka in Galle. Stepping into the critical No. 3 slot as a replacement for the injured Sai Sudharsan, the 26-year-old left-hander showcased supreme composure to position India in command.
He came into the middle after Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dismissal following a mix-up with KL Rahul. He looked in complete control of the proceedings and guided his side to a dominant position at stumps on Day 1.
His backfoot play and decisive footwork allowed him to dominate the bowling from the outset, carrying over the stellar form he displayed during the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 and the preceding warm-up matches.
Reaching his century off just 134 deliveries with nine boundaries and a towering six, Padikkal used his height and extended reach to neutralize Sri Lanka’s spin attack on a turning pitch. The Karnataka batter remained unbeaten on 131 off 178 deliveries, including 12 boundaries and a six. India ended the day on 288/2, with Rishabh Pant occupying the other end at 27 off 36 balls.
Fans showered praise on Padikkal for his magnificent hundred earlier today in Galle. Former cricketers Aakash Chopra and Sanjay Manjrekar also commended the southpaw for his dominating innings.
Here are a few reactions:
Devdutt Padikkal registers two big milestones with his ton in Galle
This milestone holds historical significance for Indian cricket. Padikkal became only the second Indian left-handed batter in the 21st century to score a Test century from the No. 3 position. He joined former India captain Sourav Ganguly, who achieved the feat against Zimbabwe in 2002.
Furthermore, the knock snapped a two-year drought for an Indian hundred at the No. 3 spot. The last Indian to get a Test hundred from No.3 was Shubman Gill against Bangladesh in Chennai in September 2024.
Coming after periods of injury setbacks and limited appearances since his Test debut in early 2024, Padikkal’s innings represents a major breakthrough in establishing his long-term place in India’s top order. His fluent century not only solved a persistent tactical puzzle for head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Gill but also underlined the youngster’s readiness for the highest level.
Edited by Ankush Das