Devdutt Padikkal recorded his first Test century at Galle International Stadium, scoring 100 runs off 134 balls in only his third Test. The innings places him among the elite Indian No. 3 batsmen.
Key Takeaways
- Devdutt Padikkal scores maiden Test century (134 balls) in Galle.
- He becomes the second Indian No. 3 to hit a Test hundred after Shubman Gill.
- Padikkal’s domestic form positions him as a key future No. 3 for India.
On the opening day of the first Test between India and Sri Lanka at Galle International Cricket Stadium, Devdutt Padikkal reached his maiden Test hundred, scoring 100 runs off 134 deliveries. The milestone came after Shubman Gill won the toss and elected to bat first.
Padikkal’s Innings Breakdown
Batting at No. 3, Padikkal arrived at the crease at the end of the 11th over following a run‑out dismissal of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. The 26‑year‑old then steadied the innings with a composed century, becoming only the second Indian No. 3 after Gill to achieve this feat in over three years.
Historical Significance
Since Cheteshwar Pujara’s last Test appearance in June 2023, no Indian No. 3 had posted a Test hundred until Padikkal’s effort. His performance adds a new chapter to India’s middle‑order legacy.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that Padikkal’s technical proficiency and domestic record – 1,152 runs at 57.6 average with four centuries since 2024 – could cement him as a permanent fixture at number three, providing stability and depth to the Indian Test lineup.
"Padikkal’s century injects fresh energy into India’s Test batting order," says cricket analyst Rajesh Sharma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will Padikkal retain the No. 3 slot for the remainder of the series?
A: Team selectors are likely to keep him at No. 3 given his form and the stability he provides.
Q2: How did Padikkal’s century impact India’s total score?
A: His innings laid a solid foundation, allowing India to post a competitive first‑innings total and dictate the match tempo.
