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Extra Time Web Desk

India ended the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka in a strong position, with the batsmen putting on a dominant show. Leading the charge was Devdutt Padikkal, whose brilliant maiden Test century helped India take control of proceedings. India finished the day at 288/2, with Padikkal unbeaten on 131.

Padikkal received excellent support from KL Rahul, with the pair adding 150 runs for the second wicket. Rahul eventually retired hurt on 77 after suffering from cramps and leaving the field.

Rishabh Pant was at the crease with Padikkal at the close of play. Pant came in after Shubman Gill was dismissed for 16. Yashasvi Jaiswal had earlier been dismissed for 32.

The day’s play was brought to an early end, 17 overs before the scheduled close, due to rain.

There had been considerable discussion ahead of the series about India’s recent struggles against spin. However, the Indian batsmen largely put those concerns to rest on the opening day. The spinners also failed to extract much assistance from the surface, but India’s dominant batting display will provide the visitors with plenty of confidence at the start of the series.

With Padikkal firmly established at the crease and India already in a commanding position, the visitors will look to build on their strong start when play resumes.