Pleasing-to-the-eye Devdutt Padikkal takes a big stride with his maiden Test ton at Galle but that’s all there is to it
Pleasing to the eye Devdutt: Maiden Test Century at Galle
A Breakthrough Performance
Bharatmorningnews.com – Pleasing to the eye Devdutt Padikkal has finally arrived on the Test stage with a magnificent century against Sri Lanka at Galle. The left-handed opener, who had been building momentum through domestic and India A performances, converted his recent form into a career-defining moment. The flat pitch at Galle Stadium offered perfect conditions for Padikkal’s elegant strokeplay, allowing him to showcase the technical prowess that has made him one of India’s most promising young talents.
The 26-year-old Karnataka batsman’s journey to this milestone was well-documented. During India A’s tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year, Padikkal accumulated runs at the same venue with scores of 12, 67, and 94 across three innings. His preparation reached fever pitch when he smashed an unbeaten 142 in a three-day practice match against the Sri Lanka Cricket XI just last week. These performances had clearly signaled that a Test century was not a matter of if, but when.
Challenges Along the Way
Padikkal’s innings was not without its moments of tension. Reaching the milestone off 134 balls, he displayed composure and patience throughout. However, a crucial moment arose when the score was at 98. A huge appeal went up for a catch at silly point off the first ball of an over. The ball struck his pad rather than the bat, and the appeal was turned down. Moments later, appearing hurried, he drove the spinner toward midwicket and seemed set for two runs. Indian captain Shubman Gill, however, called him back, resulting in a single. While television commentator Sanjay Manjrekar commended Gill’s caution, replays confirmed it was indeed a boundary.
Sanjay Manjrekar praised Gill for his decision to send Padikkal back, though the run was clearly a double.
Padikkal eventually reached his hundred off the fifth delivery of that same over, completing a technically sound performance that will boost his confidence significantly. His unbeaten 131 at the close of play positioned India at 288 for two wickets, setting up an exciting second day.
What This Means for Indian Cricket
Entering this match, Padikkal carried considerable attention. He had not featured in a Test since November 2024. India’s search for a reliable number three batsman had led them to Sai Sudharsan, who assumed the role in June 2025. Sudharsan’s injury opened the door for Padikkal’s selection. Notably, the last Indian number three to score a century was Shubman Gill against Bangladesh in Chennai during September 2024.
While this century may not immediately displace Sudharsan from the starting lineup, it significantly strengthens Padikkal’s case for future inclusion. He now positions himself as a versatile option who can contribute at number three or fill other batting roles as circumstances demand. The timing of his century, coming at a crucial period for Indian cricket, adds extra significance to his achievement.
Looking Ahead
With similar conditions expected on Sunday, the batsman has every opportunity to push toward a double hundred. It was, without question, his day to shine. Pleasing to the eye Devdutt has now proven that he belongs among India’s elite batsmen, and his future in Test cricket looks brighter than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Devdutt Padikkal’s last Test appearance before Galle? Devdutt Padikkal had not played a Test match since November 2024 before his century-making performance at Galle.
Who replaced Devdutt at number three in the Indian batting order? Sai Sudharsan assumed the number three role in June 2025 after Devdutt’s absence from the Test team.
What was Devdutt’s highest score in India A’s tour of Sri Lanka? During India A’s tour of Sri Lanka, Devdutt’s highest score was 94 at the Galle venue.
How many balls did Devdutt take to reach his century at Galle? Devdutt Padikkal reached his maiden Test century off 134 deliveries in the match against Sri Lanka.