Padikkal's unbeaten 131 lifts India in Galle Test as Rahul retires hurt

A late call‑up Padikkal turned his debut into a 131‑run innings, helping India take control of the Galle Test against Sri Lanka.

Padikkal opened the scoring on day one of the 600th Test for India at Galle, remaining unbeaten on 131 after facing 178 balls. The left‑hander, drafted in as a replacement for the injured Sai Sudharsan, forged a 150‑run second‑wicket partnership with K.L. Rahul, who later retired hurt on 77.

The knock not only gave India a commanding total but also signalled a potential long‑term role for Padikkal at number three in the line‑up. He last appeared in a Test in November 2024 and had hit a century in a warm‑up match in Colombo, but this was only his third appearance at the highest level.

Opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal was run out for 32 after a mix‑up, leaving Padikkal to steer the innings. Rahul reached his 21st Test half‑century after 127 deliveries, but cramping forced him to retire shortly after tea. Shubman Gill fell for 16 while attempting a lofted drive against Prabath Jayasuriya, and Rishabh Pant added a useful 27 not out, stepping out to the spinners.

Fielding coach Jordon Gregory praised Padikkal’s technique, noting it was only his third Test. Sri Lankan fielder Nishan Fernando suffered a blow to the head after a sweep attempt by Rahul, prompting a concussion check before he returned to the field.

Rain limited play to 73 of the scheduled 90 overs, so the second day will start fifteen minutes early to recover lost time. Rahul is expected to resume his innings after treatment, while Padikkal’s form puts pressure on the selectors to consider him for future series. The outcome of the match will likely influence the momentum of the three‑match series, with India aiming to extend their unbeaten run against Sri Lanka.