Padikkal’s 167 Keeps India In Control As Sri Lanka Strike Back In Galle

Devdutt Padikkal converted his overnight 131 into a magnificent 167 as India strengthened their position against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium on Sunday.

Persistent rain wiped out the morning session, forcing India to resume their innings only in the afternoon.

The visitors collected 76 runs in an extended 85-minute session, but Sri Lanka responded with three important breakthroughs.

Padikkal remained assured after returning to the crease and quickly moved towards a landmark score. He brought up his maiden 150 in Test cricket by flicking Asitha Fernando over mid-on for four.

The achievement placed Padikkal among a select group of Indian batters to score at least 150 at number three against Sri Lanka.

Rahul Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara had previously achieved the feat. His impressive stay ended on 167 from 230 balls.

Prabath Jayasuriya tempted him forward with a flatter delivery, allowing wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella to complete the stumping.

Padikkal struck 15 fours and one six during his commanding knock.

Rishabh Pant adopted an aggressive approach but departed for 39 after Keshara Nuwantha claimed his first Test wicket. Pant charged down the pitch but sliced the delivery towards wide mid-off.

KL Rahul, who returned after retiring hurt with forearm cramps on Saturday, added only five more runs.

Nuwantha then generated sharp turn and bounce, with Nishan Madushka taking the catch at forward short leg to dismiss Rahul for 82.

Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja prevented further damage before tea. Jurel remained unbeaten on 19, while Jadeja was four not out.

India entered the break on 364/5 and will now aim to push their first-innings score beyond 400 as they seek a strong advantage over Sri Lanka.

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