Colombo, Aug. 23 -- Devdutt Padikkal and Shubman Gill struck half-centuries to put India in a commanding position before Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando dismissed Gill late in the second session on Day 1 of the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground. India reached 187/3 in 52 overs at Tea, with Padikkal unbeaten on 63 and Rishabh Pant yet to open his account.

India, with the help of Padikkal and Gill, added 99 runs to their score in the second session of Day 1.

Resuming the post-lunch session at 88/2, India dominated proceedings as Padikkal and Gill put together a crucial 120-run partnership for the third wicket. The pair negotiated Sri Lanka's spin attack confidently, with Padikkal bringing up his half-century off 90 bal...