India secured a comprehensive 165-run victory over Sri Lanka
in the first Test at the Galle International Stadium, taking a 1-0 lead in the
two-match series.
 |
| Image Credits: NDTV Sports |
Opting to bat first, Team India posted a formidable total of 462 runs, underpinned by a magnificent maiden Test century from Devdutt Padikkal, who played a stellar knock of 167. Solid contributions from KL Rahul (82) and Dhruv Jurel (51) further strengthened the visitors' position. In response, Sri Lanka managed 284 in their first innings despite a century from Sonal Dinusha, giving India a crucial 178-run lead.
The spin duo came to the fore as the pitch offered sharp
turn. Young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar dismantled the hosts with a
phenomenal 10-wicket match haul, including 6 for 55 in the second innings.
Though Sri Lanka fought back through Dinusha (84) and Dhananjaya de Silva (59)
in their chase of a 372-run target, Suthar's lethal spell on the final
afternoon bundled the hosts out for 206.
The victory earns India vital ICC World Test Championship points, providing a massive morale boost heading into the second Test. The Second and final Test of the match of the series will be played beginning from 23rd Aug in Colombo.
