In a series of interesting developments, Devdutt Padikkal has delivered a strong statement ahead of India's two-match Test series against Sri Lanka by producing an impressive century in the ongoing warm-up fixture. The left-handed batter, who has been included in India's Test squad for the tour, reached century against Sri Lanka XI on Day 2 of the three-day practice match on Saturday, August 8.
Big boost for India
With this century, Padikkal has dropped a strong claim for a place in the playing XI. The Karnataka batter, who played his maiden Test cap against England at Dharamsala in March 2024, smashed every door in front of him with a well crafted 103 off 121 balls. During his innings, Padikkal managed to hit 14 boundaries and brought up the milestone in style, smashing Ramesh Mendis for four on the fourth delivery of the 40th over of India's first innings.
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After completing the century, the left-handed batter was retired out to give chance to other India batters, so that everyone gets used to the Sri Lankan conditions.
Unfortunate update for Team India
In a series of breaking updates, It has been reported that Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, starting from August 15. The star left-handed batter endured a toe injury right after the one-off Test match against Afghanistan earlier this month, since then he has been spending time at BCCI's Centre of Excellence.
Sports Tak has learnt that Sai Sudharsan has been ruled out of the upcoming red-ball assignment as he continues his recovery. Although the left-handed batter has shown positive improvement, doctors have advised him to allow more time for biological healing before coming back to action.