Devdutt Padikkal who scored a century against Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle, spoke about batting with KL Rahul and the chemistry they share. The left-hand batter slotted in at Number 3 in place of the injured Sai Sudharsan. He scored 167 in the first innings and 44 in the second and a total of 211 runs in the match. His maiden Test century was crucial for India to reach 462 in the first innings. The Karnataka pair put on a 150 run partnership for the second wicket after Yashasvi Jaiswal’s early dismissal.

“Batting with him is enjoyable, we have had long partnerships. We play well with each other, he understands my tempo, such chemistry helps,” Padikkal said, reflecting on KL Rahul. That chemistry was on display across both innings at the Galle International Stadium. 

Padikkal has been careful not to look too far ahead, especially with Sudharsan expected to return. “It’s important that whenever you get that opportunity, you have to just take it,” he said. In the first innings the pair put together a vital 150-run stand for the second wicket after Yashasvi Jaiswal’s early dismissal. Rahul made a composed 82 before retiring hurt with cramps. Padikkal went on to a magnificent 167 his maiden Test century, helping India post a commanding 462.

KL Rahul gives Padikkal a Hug After Successful Review

On Day 4 the Karnataka duo were once again excellent. After Jaiswal fell cheaply for a three-ball duck, Rahul and Padikkal again anchored the innings with a 65-run partnership. The partnership featured one of the match’s most memorable moments. When Rahul was given out LBW to Prabath Jayasuriya, Padikkal, from the non-striker’s end, asked him to take a review. Ball-tracking showed the delivery would have gone over the stumps. A relieved Rahul immediately gave his partner a big hug.

Rahul could score only a few more runs before falling for 35, but Padikkal continued to look solid scoring 44 off 75 balls before being trapped LBW by debutant Keshara Nuwantha. His match aggregate of 211 runs was the highest by an Indian No. 3 against Sri Lanka since Rahul Dravid’s 215 in 2009. India declared their second innings at 193, setting Sri Lanka a huge target of 372. By stumps on Day 4 the hosts were 84 for 4 and still need 288 more with six wickets in hand on a tricky surface.