IND vs SL, 1st Test Day 1 Highlights: A magnificent maiden Test century from Devdutt Padikkal propelled India national cricket team to a commanding 288 for 2 at stumps on Day 1 of the first Test against the Sri Lanka national cricket team at the Galle International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, August 15, 2026. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, the visitors capitalized on favorable batting conditions through an authoritative batting display led by the young left-hander. Supported by a fluent 77 from KL Rahul and an aggressive cameo from Rishabh Pant, India established complete control over the opening day of the Test series.
INDIA 288/2 ON DAY 1 STUMPS.
– Devdutt Padikkal the hero with an unbeaten 131* (178). 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/nX4Ew9vSyj
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 15, 2026
IND vs SL Day 1, 1st Test: Devdutt Padikkal Anchors Innings With Sublime Maiden Test Century In Galle
Devdutt Padikkal delivered a masterclass in composed strokeplay and patience, registering his first Test ton with an unbeaten 131 off 178 deliveries. The Karnataka batter seamlessly took charge of the Indian innings, striking twelve crisp boundaries and a towering six. Padikkal looked completely at ease against both pace and spin on a surface offering minimal early assistance to Sri Lankan bowlers. His ability to rotate strike and punish loose deliveries helped India dominate throughout the afternoon and final sessions without breaking a sweat.
Indian flag flying high in Galle with Devdutt Padikkal celebrating his hundred. ❤️🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/3G0745GuVP
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 15, 2026
KL Rahul Hits Solid Fifty Before Retiring Hurt As Top Order Lays Strong Foundation
India got off to a steady start as openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill scored 32 and 16, respectively, before falling to disciplined bowling spells. KL Rahul then combined with Devdutt Padikkal for a crucial partnership, compiling a composed 77 off 162 deliveries before severe cramps forced him to retire hurt late in the afternoon. Rishabh Pant joined Padikkal before the close of play, scoring a brisk 27 not out from 36 deliveries to ensure India finished the opening day in a position of overwhelming strength.