India’s KL Rahul (PTI Photo/Shailendra Bhojak)

KL Rahul’s condition after retiring hurt on the opening day of India’s first Test against Sri Lanka is not a major concern, with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak saying the senior batter is “fine now” after suffering cramps.Rahul scored a patient 77 off 162 balls before leaving the field during the final session. He had formed a crucial 150-run partnership with Devdutt Padikkal, helping India take control of the contest.“KL batted really well, was getting cramps everywhere. fine now,” Kotak told reporters after the day’s play.

Padikkal shines on Test comeback

The biggest highlight of India’s batting effort was Padikkal’s unbeaten 131, his maiden international century. Returning to Test cricket after last playing against Australia in Perth in 2024, the Karnataka batter looked confident and composed throughout his innings.Kotak praised the work Padikkal has put in over the past two years and also highlighted Sai Sudharsan’s progress.“Credit to Devdutt Padikkal for preparing & working hard in last 2 years. Both he, Sai are batting well. They are new ball batter,” he added.Padikkal reached his hundred from 134 balls and struck a variety of shots against Sri Lanka’s pace and spin attack. He was particularly effective against left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, using sweeps, punches and attacking shots to keep the bowlers under pressure.“[To me] its important how they bat in different phases,” Kotak said, underlining the importance of adapting to changing conditions during an innings.

India finish day in command

India ended the day at 288 for two, with Padikkal unbeaten on 131 and Rishabh Pant on 27. Shubman Gill made a valuable contribution before being dismissed by Jayasuriya.Rahul’s departure was the only concern for India, although Kotak’s update should ease worries about the batter’s condition. Padikkal also battled dehydration late in the humid day but continued his innings.With India firmly in control after the opening day, attention will now turn to whether Rahul is fit to return and how Padikkal and Pant build on the strong platform.