Devdutt Padikkal Shines in Galle With Maiden Test Century, Strengthens India’s No. 3 Claim
India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test | Day 1 | Galle, August 15, 2026
Devdutt Padikkal made a stunning return to India's Test side on Saturday, producing a memorable unbeaten century against Sri Lanka in Galle.
The left-handed batter finished the opening day on 131 not out, helping India reach a commanding 288/2 at stumps in the first Test of the two-match series. It was Padikkal's maiden Test century and a major statement at a time when India's No. 3 position has been under
considerable discussion.
Padikkal Makes His Opportunity Count
Padikkal entered the playing XI after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out through injury, giving him another opportunity to establish himself in India's Test middle order.
He made the most of it.
Coming in after Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed, Padikkal showed impressive control against the Sri Lankan attack. Instead of taking unnecessary risks, he combined patience with well-timed attacking shots and gradually turned his innings into one of the day's biggest highlights.
His century came in confident fashion and gave India the stability they needed on a pitch where the Sri Lankan spinners were expected to play a major role.
A Big Statement for India's No. 3 Position
Padikkal's performance could have important consequences for India's long-running search for a dependable No. 3 batter.
According to Cricbuzz, his century was India's first hundred from a No. 3 batter since Shubman Gill's century against Bangladesh in Chennai in September 2024.
Several players have been given opportunities in the position, but consistency has remained an issue.
Padikkal's unbeaten 131 gives him a strong case, particularly because he produced the innings in challenging overseas conditions and against a Sri Lankan attack featuring multiple spin options.
KL Rahul Provides Strong Support
Padikkal was not the only Indian batter to impress.
KL Rahul also played a composed innings and scored 77 runs from 162 balls before retiring hurt after experiencing cramps. His patient knock helped India build a strong platform during the first two sessions.
Earlier, Yashasvi Jaiswal provided an aggressive start before being involved in a run-out and dismissed for 32.
After Rahul's departure, Rishabh Pant joined Padikkal at the crease and remained unbeaten on 27 at the close of play.
India Finish Day 1 in Control
India ended the rain-interrupted opening day at 288/2 after 73 overs.
Padikkal was unbeaten on 131, while Pant remained not out on 27. Sri Lanka struggled to make regular breakthroughs despite conditions that were expected to assist spin
The strong first-day total puts India in an excellent position heading into the second day.
Why Padikkal's Century Matters
The importance of Padikkal's innings goes beyond the number on the scoreboard.
He had been given an opportunity at a crucial position in the batting order, and instead of simply surviving, he produced a commanding performance.
His ability to handle the Galle conditions, rotate the strike and attack when opportunities appeared demonstrated both temperament and technique.
India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak also praised Padikkal's preparation and improved back-foot technique after his century.
India's 600th Test Adds to the Occasion
The match itself is historic for Indian cricket.
The Galle Test is India's 600th Test match, making Padikkal's maiden century even more memorable.
India chose to bat first after captain Shubman Gill won the toss on the opening morning.
With India already in a strong position after Day 1, the team will now look to convert its excellent start into a massive first-innings total.
What Comes Next?
India will resume their first innings on Day 2 with Padikkal and Pant at the crease.
The major question will be whether Padikkal can convert his unbeaten 131 into an even bigger score and help India establish a decisive advantage.
For Padikkal personally, the innings could prove to be a turning point in his Test career.
A maiden century at No. 3, on a significant occasion and in difficult overseas conditions, has given the left-hander the perfect opportunity to strengthen his position in India's Test plans.
Match Details
Match: India vs Sri Lanka, 1st Test
Date: August 15–19, 2026
Venue: Galle International Stadium, Sri Lanka
Day 1 Score: India 288/2
Devdutt Padikkal: 131*
Rishabh Pant: 27*
KL Rahul: 77
Format: Test Cricket
Series: India Tour of Sri Lanka 2026
Competition: ICC World Test Championship 2025–27
Category: Sports
Label: Sports
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