Padikkal steals the show with 167 in first Lanka Test

Padikkal, recalled to the side after almost two years as an injury replacement for Sai Sudharsan, impressed the most among the batsmen. His knock was the fourth-highest Test score by an Indian in Sri Lanka behind Sachin Tendulkar (203), Virender Sehwag (201 not out).

Padikkal, playing his third Test match, looked solid as he struck elegant drives during his 230-ball knock that lasted more than five hours. His 167-run knock contained 15 fours and a six.

What Happened

When play resumed in the afternoon, Sri Lanka took the new ball and got the much-needed breakthroughs. Their spinners managed to get more purchase off the surface, picking three quick wickets.

• Batting at number six, Dhruv Jurel hit 51 off 68 balls to ensure India did not collapse after the dismissal of Padikkal.

• Prabath Jayasuriya claimed the big wicket of Padikkal, having him stumped by Niroshan Dickwella.

• Rahul had to retire on 77 on day one due to cramps and he could only add five more runs on day two.

Key Details

Rahul who was caught by close in fielder Nishan Fernando for 82.

• Dinusha ran in from wide mid-off and dived to take the catch, giving Nuwantha his first Test wicket.

• Rishabh Pant (39) was the first to go when he was caught by Sonal Dinusha off debutant spinner Keshara Nuwantha.

What Reports Say

Coverage of the story so far points to:

• Continued reporting by Kuwait Times as more details emerge