India vs Sri Lanka, 1st Test Day 1: Padikkal's Century Puts India on Top
India won the toss, chose to bat first at Galle, and made the most of it despite a rain-affected day, closing on 288/2 thanks to a maiden Test century from Devdutt Padikkal. Here's how Day 1 of the series-opening Test unfolded.
This is a five-day Test (August 15-19). The figures below reflect the confirmed close-of-play scorecard for Day 1. Check back for Day 2 coverage as the match progresses.
India won the toss and elected to bat first at Galle International Stadium. Despite rain interruptions and a wet outfield delaying play at points, India closed Day 1 on 288/2, anchored by a maiden Test century from Devdutt Padikkal (131* not out) and a composed 77 from KL Rahul, who retired hurt with cramps.
Toss & Conditions
India captain Shubman Gill won the toss and had no hesitation batting first on a Galle pitch expected to offer turn as the match wears on. Play was interrupted more than once by rain and a wet ground, with the second session in particular delayed as the ground was brought under covers, but India lost no time making the most of the overs they did get.
Batting Highlights
Yashasvi Jaiswal got India moving at the top before being run out for 32. Devdutt Padikkal then built the innings around himself, reaching his maiden Test century and finishing the day unbeaten on 131 off 73 overs of play. KL Rahul provided the other major contribution, playing a composed 77 before retiring hurt due to cramps rather than being dismissed. Rishabh Pant came in as the other not-out batter at the close, on 27, as India ended the day firmly on top. Prabath Jayasuriya was Sri Lanka's only wicket-taker on the day, removing Shubman Gill.
| Batter | Status | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | Run Out | 32 |
| Shubman Gill | Out (b. Jayasuriya) | - |
| KL Rahul | Retired Hurt (Cramps) | 77 |
| Devdutt Padikkal | Not Out | 131* |
| Rishabh Pant | Not Out | 27* |
Bowling for Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's bowlers had limited success against India's set batters, with Prabath Jayasuriya providing the only breakthrough of the day, removing Shubman Gill. Beyond that wicket, the rest of the attack struggled to make further inroads on a surface that hadn't yet started to break up. Sri Lanka will be hoping the pitch offers more assistance as the match moves into Day 2 and beyond, with spin traditionally playing a bigger role at Galle as the Test progresses.
What's Next
With India well-placed at the close of Day 1, the focus on Day 2 shifts to how long the tail can extend the innings and what target Sri Lanka will be chasing down in reply. For the full series schedule, including the 2nd Test in Colombo, see our India vs Sri Lanka Test series overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the toss in the India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test?
India, who elected to bat first.
What was India's score at the end of Day 1?
288/2, after 73 overs.
Who scored a century on Day 1?
Devdutt Padikkal, finishing the day not out on 131 — his maiden Test century.
Did rain affect play on Day 1?
Yes, a wet outfield and rain caused interruptions during the day, including a delayed second session.
Where is the 1st Test being played?
Galle International Stadium, Sri Lanka, running August 15-19.