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Fans erupt as Devdutt Padikkal lights up Colombo with sensational century on Day 1 of second Test

By AsiaEurope



Devdutt Padikkal continued his remarkable run in Sri Lanka with another memorable Test century, giving Indian fans plenty to celebrate on Day 1 of the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo. The left-hander showcased tremendous patience and composure to reach three figures from 168 deliveries, following up his impressive hundred in the opening Test with another commanding knock.

Padikkal’s innings was particularly impressive because it did not begin in ideal circumstances. Coming to the crease early after India lost a wicket, the Karnataka batter had to negotiate a disciplined Sri Lankan pace attack and some movement off the surface. He also received a couple of early reprieves, with chances in the slip cordon going down while he was yet to score and again after reaching just one run. Rather than allowing those moments to unsettle him, Padikkal responded by tightening his defence and becoming increasingly assured at the crease.

Partnership with Shubman Gill changes the game

Once Padikkal found his rhythm, he and captain Shubman Gill began to wrestle control away from Sri Lanka. The pair added 120 runs for the third wicket, providing India with the stability it desperately needed after the early setback.

Gill played with his usual authority, using crisp drives and confident back-foot strokes to keep the scoreboard moving. At the other end, Padikkal adopted a more measured approach, showing excellent judgement outside the off stump and using his soft hands effectively against the spin. His ability to find gaps, particularly through the cover region, repeatedly frustrated the Sri Lankan bowlers. As the partnership grew, the pressure shifted firmly onto the hosts.

Gill’s dismissal after a fluent half-century brought the partnership to an end, but by then India had established a strong platform. Padikkal remained the key figure in the middle, carrying the responsibility of converting his start into another major score.

Back-to-back hundreds spark fan frenzy

Padikkal’s latest hundred adds another chapter to what has already been a highly productive tour. He had announced himself in the first Test with a superb 167, making his latest century even more significant. The batter had also impressed during India’s tour game, scoring an unbeaten 142 at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground. His consistency has underlined his growing confidence in overseas conditions and strengthened his case as a dependable option in India’s middle order.

Batting at No. 3, Padikkal has shown that he can absorb pressure while also shifting gears when opportunities arise. His latest century was another example of that balance. However, his innings eventually came to an end at 117 when Keshara Nuwantha dismissed him. By then, Padikkal had already done the damage, leaving Indian supporters delighted with another memorable performance.

Also WATCH: Yashasvi Jaiswal indulges in physical altercation with Asitha Fernando on Day 1 of Colombo Test – SL vs IND

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Here’s why Rishabh Pant walked off the field on Day 1 of Colombo Test





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