"He Was Waiting for His Opportunity" - India Coach Hails Devdutt Padikkal for Ton on Day 1 of 1st SL vs IND 2026 Test
Devdutt Padikkal scored an unbeaten 131 as India reached 288 for 2, while coach Sitanshu Kotak credited his back-foot work and shot selection.
- On Saturday in Galle, Devdutt Padikkal scored his maiden Test century, finishing 131 not out off 178 balls with twelve boundaries and a six against Sri Lanka.
- India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak credited Padikkal's meticulous preparation at the BCCI CoE, emphasizing his focus on back foot game, step-out shots, and sweeps against Lankan spinners.
- Padikkal's nearly 40 runs from sweeps and stepping out to left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya justified Kotak's observation about his improved shot selection during the innings.
- Vice-Captain KL Rahul retired hurt on 77 due to cramps but Kotak expects him fit for Day 2, praising his flexibility to bat at various positions across formats.
- Sri Lanka spin and fielding coach Jordan Gregory praised the Indian batters' performance, commending debutant Keshara Nuwantha for creating opportunities during his first Test appearance.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Former India cricketer backs Devdutt Padikkal to continue onslaught against Sri Lanka after day 1 century
The Indian team put in a good show against Sri Lanka on day 1 of the ongoing first Test between the two sides. The teams met at the Galle International Stadium, and India came in to bat first. The side put in an excellent performance in the game, ending the first day on a score of 288/2. It was the performance of star batter Devdutt Padikkal that stood out for Team India. Coming out to bat after the fall of the first wicket, Padikkal amassed 13…
A long road back: Devdutt Padikkal makes his second chance count in Tests
IND vs SL: Devdutt Padikkal had waited a long time for another shot at Test cricket. When the chance came in Galle, he made it count, scoring an unbeaten 131 at No. 3 against Sri Lanka. For a batter who had spent nearly two years waiting, it was quite a way to return.
India coach responds to No. 3 debate after Padikkal forces rethink with Sri Lanka hundred, reveals where Sudharsan stand
Devdutt Padikkal will bat at No. 3 in the second Test as well, with India expected to have a clearer answer to the debate during their tour of New Zealand.
"Worked On Back Foot Game": India Coach Sitanshu Kotak Reveals Secret To Devdutt Padikkal's Success
India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak on Saturday lauded Devdutt Padikkal for working on his back foot game and overall shot selection after the No. 3 batter made a wonderful maiden international hundred.
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