Galle, August 17: Devdutt Padikkal struck a magnificent 167, while KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel made valuable contributions as India reached 460/9 in 116 overs against Sri Lanka on a rain-hit second day of the opening Test at the Galle International Stadium.
Persistent rain delayed the start of play and allowed only 43 overs during the day. Despite the interruptions, India added 172 runs to its overnight total of 288/2, maintaining a strong position in the Test.
Padikkal was the standout performer, producing a career-best Test score of 167 from 230 balls. His innings included 15 fours and a six, as he continued the excellent form that had placed India in control on the opening day.
KL Rahul, who had retired hurt after scoring 77 on the opening day because of forearm cramps, returned to the crease and made a crucial 82. Dhruv Jurel then provided late momentum with a brisk 51.
Sri Lanka, however, mounted a determined fightback through their spinners. Prabath Jayasuriya claimed four wickets for 109 runs, while debutant Keshara Nuwantha took three wickets for 175. The pair accounted for all seven Indian wickets to fall during the day’s play.
Rishabh Pant contributed 39 before becoming Nuwantha’s first Test wicket, while Jurel’s half-century helped India push beyond the 450-run mark despite the late collapse.
At stumps, Kuldeep Yadav was unbeaten on 12 and Prasidh Krishna on 1, leaving India just one wicket away from completing its innings.
India’s imposing total leaves the visitors firmly in control, although Sri Lanka’s spinners have given the hosts some encouragement after a dominant batting display from India.