India made a strong return to World Test Championship (WTC) action, overcoming both Sri Lanka and impending rain to secure a decisive 165-run victory in the first Test at Galle.
Riding on Devdutt Padikkal’s maiden Test century (167) and a sensational six-wicket haul from young spinner Manav Suthar, India wrapped up the match on the final day, improving their position on the WTC points table.
Despite Sri Lanka’s middle-order defiance—led by Dhananjaya de Silva (59) and Sonal Dinusha (84)—Jadeja’s crucial breakthrough broke their 95-run stand, allowing Suthar to rip through the lower order.
India now hold a 1-0 lead in the two-match series as both teams prepare for the second and final Test, beginning this Sunday in Colombo.
Manav Suthar’s Spin Masterclass: In just his second Test, 24-year-old spinner Manav Suthar dismantled Sri Lanka’s second innings with figures of 6-74, including a dramatic three-wicket over that accelerated India’s path to victory.
Jadeja & Pant Break Records: Ravindra Jadeja delivered a crucial all-round performance with both bat and ball, while Rishabh Pant set a new record as the fastest batter to hit 100 Test sixes during a quickfire second-innings half-century.
Sri Lanka Stumble: Sri Lanka’s PCT dropped to 33.33% following their second loss in five matches, leaving them 6th on the table.
