Devdutt Padikkal drops to 167th and joins Rahul Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara in Sri Lanka’s all-time record list

Indian Devdutt Padikkal (ANI Image)

Devdutt Padikkal’s sensational innings came to an end in the opening Test against Sri Lanka as the Indian batsman was dismissed for a brilliant 167 off 230 balls in Galle. Padikkal, who hit his maiden Test century on day one, continued his impressive run on the rain-hit second day and went on to register his maiden Test score of 150.The left-hander smashed 15 fours and a six during the memorable knock, stabilizing India’s innings and keeping the visitors in a commanding position despite frequent rain-induced interruptions.

Padikkal joins Dravid and Pujara in the elite list

With his 150-plus scores, Padikkal became the third Indian player to score 150 or more against Sri Lanka from third place. He joins the likes of Rahul Dravid, who scored 177 runs in Ahmedabad in 2009, and Cheteshwar Pujara, who scored 153 runs in Galle in 2017.Padikkal’s innings was particularly impressive considering the long breaks. The second day’s theater eventually got underway after a delay of around four and a half hours due to rain, with other weather disturbances continuing to impact the test.

Padikkal falls after leaving the crease early

Sri Lanka finally got the breakthrough they desperately needed when Prapath Jayasuriya dismissed a set-piece. Padikkal came down the track, but Jayasuriya spotted the movement and pushed the delivery faster and flatter off stump. Padikkal missed the ball, allowing wicket-keeper Niroshan Dickwella to collect it and take the bails out in an instant. The 24-year-old received a standing ovation from the Galle fans as he returned to the pavilion, while his Indian team-mates also stood up to applaud his impressive effort.Padikkal was handed the No. 3 role following Sudharsen’s injury and he responded with a career-defining performance. His maiden century also made him the first Indian batsman to score a Test century on Independence Day, while he became the second Indian cricketer after Virat Kohli to score an international century on 15 August.

India loses Pant and Rahul after the resumption of play

Once play finally resumed, India suffered two quick setbacks. Rishabh Pant was dismissed for 39 off 62 balls, caught by Sonal Dinusha at mid-wicket while trying to play Keshara Nwantha.KL Rahul, who retired due to cramps on day one, returned to the crease but was unable to convert his impressive debut into a century. He was dismissed for 82 off 175 balls, as Nishan Fernando made a sharp catch at short leg off Nowantha.