India's Devdutt Padikkal left Sri Lanka's spinners stunned on Day 1 of the first Test in Galle, scoring a maiden century.
He reached his hundred off 134 balls, dominating the Sri Lankan spinners with a fluent innings at number 3. This impressive display of technique against the turning ball has drawn widespread praise, with former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar hailing Padikkal as "God-sent for India v spinners".
The left-hander's innings was a turning point for India, who were struggling after a timing error led to Yashasvi Jaiswal being run out early on. Padikkal's composed and authoritative innings has left India in a commanding position, with a big first-innings total in sight.
Padikkal's performance has also addressed India's long-standing problem at the number 3 position, which has been a revolving door since the retirements of Cheteshwar Pujara. A technically sound left-hander comfortable against spin could finally bring some permanence to a problem slot.
The Sri Lankan spinners, led by star spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, were unable to contain Padikkal's authority at the crease. He combined watchful defence with fearless strokeplay, repeatedly using his feet to disrupt the bowlers' lengths.
The India star's innings has drawn praise from fans and experts alike, with one supporter tracking his progress through the innings, writing, "Devdutt Padikkal is making his mark at No. 3 for India." Another fan shared a picture of the dressing room, showing captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir applauding Padikkal after his terrific fifty.
Padikkal's hundred also came in the context of KL Rahul retiring hurt with cramps, making his contribution all the more valuable. With both Rahul retired hurt and Gill gone cheaply by a misplaced shot, he remains India's anchor for the first innings.
The bigger question is whether Padikkal can turn this breakthrough into a lasting run in the side. With India's middle order still looking for stability, a maiden century in these demanding conditions is a welcome boost for the team.
Padikkal's performance has given India a solid platform to build on, with a big first-innings total in sight. The Sri Lankan spinners will be looking to regroup and come back stronger in the second innings, but for now, Padikkal's century is the talking point in Galle.
Source: Yahoo Sports