Devdutt Padikkal reveals his 'ultimate goal' after smashing 167 on India Test comeback

Devdutt Padikkal has reignited his India career, after smashing a marvelous knock of 167 runs in the ongoing opening Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. Back in the longest format for the first time since the opening Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth, the left-handed batter has grabbed this chance with both hands, as he dropped the scores of 167 and 44 in two innings. After his strong showing in Galle, Padikkal stressed on Tuesday that establishing himself in Test cricket remains his top priority.

Appearing at the post-day press conference, the left-handed batter claimed that he wants to establish himself as the solid Test batter, saying he has worked on his technique which could complement the longest format.

“I think I have always been aware that Test cricket is my ultimate goal. So, I have tried to model my game in such a way that I don’t go too far away from my basics. I try to make sure that I am in a place where I am always equipped to switch to red ball because that is my first priority," said Padikkal at the post-day press conference.

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India need only four wickets

Despite being bowled out for just 193 in the second innings, India's first innings advantage helped them set Sri Lanka a massive 372-run target. The hosts endured a poor start to the chase with Mohammed Siraj giving India their first breakthrough in the seventh over before Manav Suthar dismissed Pasindu Sooriya Bandara for a golden duck to leave Sri Lanka reeling at 14/2. Suthar struck once again later in the innings, while Prasidh Krishna also joined the party as India continued to tighten their grip on the clash.

However, Sri Lanka managed to reach 84/4 at stumps on Day 4, with skipper Dhananjaya de Silva unbeaten on 31 and Sonal Dinusha not out on 24. Suthar finished the day with two wickets, while Siraj and Krishna claimed one each. India entered the final day needing six more wickets before Sri Lanka scored the remaining 288 runs to win the first Test.