Devdutt Padikkal has become the first Indian batter to score a Test century on Independence Day. He achieved the historic milestone on Saturday against Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle. The left-hander replaced the injured Sai Sudharsan at number three and grabbed his opportunity with both hands. India are playing their 600th Test match, becoming only the third team after England and Australia to reach this landmark.
Record-Breaking Knock on Independence Day
Padikkal reached his hundred off 134 balls in the 57th over. He took a single off debutant spinner Keshara Nuwansha to complete the milestone. His innings included 11 fours and one six. Virat Kohli had previously scored an ODI century on August 15 in 2019 against West Indies. Kohli smashed an unbeaten 114 off 99 balls in that match at Port of Spain. Padikkal now joins Kohli in this exclusive Independence Day club.
Strong Partnership with KL Rahul
Padikkal shared a 150-run partnership with KL Rahul for the second wicket. Rahul scored a patient half-century off 127 balls before retiring hurt. He suffered severe cramps in his hand, finger, and leg during the third session and had to walk back. India ended Day 1 at a strong 288/2 with Shubman Gill unbeaten at the crease. Padikkal had earlier scored an unbeaten 142 off 164 balls in the warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI.
Pitch Conditions and Bowling Attack
The Galle pitch offered good bounce and pace for batting throughout the day. Sri Lanka used spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, debutant off-spinner Keshara Nuwansha, and Dhananjaya de Silva. They got some turn and bounce but lacked enough pace to trouble the Indian batters. The only worrying moment came when Rahul edged Nuwansha but the ball fell just short of the short-leg fielder. India dominated the first day with solid batting displays from the top order.
India’s 600th Test Milestone
The match also marks a special occasion for Indian cricket. India are playing their 600th Test on Independence Day, fitting for a historic day. Shubman Gill is leading the team in this milestone match. The team hopes to build on this strong start in the days ahead in Galle.
