Devdutt Padikkal produced an impressive unbeaten 142 to lead India’s batting response on the second day of their tour fixture against a Sri Lanka Cricket XI.
India finished the day just six runs behind the hosts with one wicket remaining, although three players had retired out. Padikkal initially left the field after completing his hundred before returning later and closing unbeaten on 142 from 164 deliveries. Gurnoor Brar provided late entertainment with a rapid 36 from only 18 balls, including four sixes.
Sri Lanka Cricket XI had declared overnight at 363 for 8, giving the visiting batting unit valuable time in the middle. KL Rahul made 40 from 67 balls, while Ravindra Jadeja contributed 63 from 117 and Manav Suthar added 41 from 90.
India suffered an immediate setback when Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed from the second ball of the morning. Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel also departed cheaply, with both unable to capitalise on their opportunities.
Padikkal, however, looked assured against a surface providing assistance to the spinners. He combined with Rahul for 96 before Kesara Nuwantha removed Rahul with a delivery that turned sharply and hit the stumps.
Jadeja then joined Padikkal for a valuable 72 run partnership. Padikkal reached three figures with a powerful pull before retiring out. Jadeja and Suthar later added another useful stand before Jadeja also left the crease after retiring.
Padikkal returned during the final session and quickly settled back into rhythm. He shared 83 with Jain, who made 22 from 45 deliveries before retiring.
Brar then delivered the final flourish. He struck Dilum Sudeera for three sixes in the last over, ensuring India ended another productive day firmly in contention heading into the remainder of the match.
