India's Devdutt Padikkal produced a composed unbeaten 131 on the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka, putting India in a strong position.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak credited Padikkal's preparation and improved back-foot game for his success. Kotak said Padikkal had specifically worked on his back-foot game during his preparations at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
Padikkal's innings was built around calculated shot selection and an ability to adapt to Sri Lanka's spin-heavy attack. Kotak explained that Padikkal's preparation had focused on developing multiple ways of putting pressure on spinners, particularly when the pitch offered turn.
The batter's ability to move back and create room, combined with occasional use of the sweep and charge down the track, allowed him to keep Sri Lanka's bowlers from settling into a rhythm.
Kotak praised Padikkal's work on his back foot game and other techniques, saying, "Preparation, I would say, overall the way Devdutt, was preparing and I saw it in the NCA…he was working on his back foot game. We try that when we expect a turn from a pitch."
Padikkal's innings reflected that preparation, with the batter predominantly comfortable playing off the back foot but also willing to step out when he needed to dominate the spinners. His century could also add another dimension to India's selection decisions once regular No. 3 Sai Sudharsan returns from his toe injury.
Sri Lanka's spin and fielding coach Jordan Gregory praised Padikkal's performance, saying, "I think firstly, credit to Padikkal. I think that he batted superbly today and so did KL." Gregory also praised debutant off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha for the way he handled the challenge of bowling against India's batters.
India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak suggested the team is less concerned about rigid batting positions and more focused on how players adapt to match situations. Kotak said, "I think Devdutt batted really well. So Sai also has been batting really well at that number. But the thing is they all are new ball batsmen."
Kotak's comments highlight the team's emphasis on adaptability and flexibility in their batting lineup. The No. 3 debate remains open, with Padikkal's century adding another dimension to India's selection decisions.
The first Test between India and Sri Lanka continues, with India in a strong position after the opening day.
Source: Yahoo Sports