India, Aug. 15 -- Devdutt Padikkal made a memorable return to Test cricket with a marvellous unbeaten 131, helping India construct a commanding 288 for two against Sri Lanka at stumps on the opening day of the first match here on Saturday.

Padikkal, whose last appearance in whites was against Australia in Perth in 2024, underlined the progress and maturity as a batter in the interim, bringing up his maiden international hundred in 134 balls.

Rishabh Pant was giving him company on 27 at close with whom Padikkal has added 52 runs for the unbroken third wicket stand.

Before KL Rahul retired hurt on 77 (162b), the Karnataka pair added 150 runs for the second wicket to keep the Lankans pinned to the wall.

Even during that alliance, the lea...