IND vs SL: Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill and the trailer of a blockbuster
Indian cricketers Devdutt Padikkal and Shubman Gill demonstrated strong defensive technique and composure during a challenging Test match against Sri Lanka. Their partnership provided a stable foundation for India after early wickets fell.
Why it matters
The performance is viewed as a promising sign for the future of India's batting lineup in international Test cricket.
TimesofIndia.com in Colombo: Throughout the day, Sri Lanka remained very chirpy and carried an air of hostility in the middle. The fast bowlers bent their backs, close-in fielders wagged their tongues, and words flew thick and fast amid the mundanities of Day 1. The encouraging bounce off the surface helped, but Sri Lanka deserve all the credit for firing up proceedings with their four-man attack.While the scoreboard suggests otherwise, it was a gripping contest where patience remained the buzzword. Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara made the good length their territory and regularly resorted to some chin music to make things happen.
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