India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, offered profound insight into the exceptional performance of Devdutt Padikkal, whose unbeaten 131 positioned India advantageously on the inaugural day of the first Test against Sri Lanka. Kotak attributed this achievement to Padikkal’s meticulous preparation and a noticeable refinement in his back-foot technique. Batting at the crucial number three position, Padikkal meticulously crafted his maiden international century, contributing significantly to India’s formidable total of 288 for two at stumps.
Padikkal’s innings was a masterclass in calculated stroke play and a remarkable ability to adapt to Sri Lanka’s spin-dominant bowling attack. Kotak elaborated that the 26-year-old had dedicated considerable effort to honing his back-foot game during his intensive training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. Concurrently, he also expanded his repertoire of shots against turning deliveries, a critical aspect when facing subcontinental conditions. Kotak expressed his profound satisfaction, stating, “I am so happy for him because he was actually waiting for his opportunity. The way he played here and in the warm-up match, it’s really encouraging.”
The coach further explained that Padikkal’s preparation was strategically designed to equip him with multiple avenues to exert pressure on spinners, especially on pitches conducive to turn. His proficiency in moving back to create space, coupled with his judicious use of the sweep shot and occasional charges down the track, effectively disrupted the rhythm of Sri Lanka’s bowlers. Kotak emphasized, “Preparation, I would say, overall the way Devdutt, was preparing and I saw it in the NCA (BCCI CoE)…he was working on his back foot game. We try that when we expect a turn from a pitch. We also tried to work on step-out, sweep besides the back foot game. So, a lot of credit goes to him, the way he has prepared himself for the last couple of years.” Padikkal’s innings unequivocally showcased the fruits of this rigorous preparation, as he demonstrated comfort playing off the back foot while also exhibiting the assertiveness to step out and dominate the spinners when the situation demanded it.
Padikkal’s century has undeniably introduced a new dynamic to India’s selection considerations, particularly with the impending return of regular number three batsman Sai Sudharsan from a toe injury. However, Kotak indicated that the team’s philosophy leans away from rigid batting positions, prioritizing instead a player’s ability to adapt to varying match situations. He articulated, “I think Devdutt batted really well. So Sai also has been batting really well at that number. But the thing is they all are new ball batsmen. So they open, they go number three, so, we are very flexible.” He further clarified, “But I would look at the way they bat, how they are adapting to conditions, how they are dealing with the different stages of a match, and that is very important for me rather than number three or four or five.” This pragmatic approach underscores the team management’s focus on versatility and situational awareness over fixed roles.
Even the opposition acknowledged Padikkal’s exceptional display. Jordan Gregory, Sri Lanka’s spin and fielding coach, commended Padikkal’s batting, along with KL Rahul, for successfully shifting the pressure back onto the hosts. Rahul had also made a significant contribution before an unfortunate injury forced him to retire hurt. Gregory stated, “I think firstly, credit to Padikkal. I think that he batted superbly today and so did KL. Unfortunate for him to get injured.” Gregory also reserved praise for debutant off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha, commending his composure and effectiveness against India’s formidable batting line-up. “It’s very encouraging to see that Kesh on his debut had asked a lot of questions and created a lot of opportunities. So credit to him. I could imagine there may have been a couple of nerves from his side. But I’m very proud of him and the way he bowled on his debut,” he added, highlighting the promise of the young Sri Lankan talent despite the challenging circumstances.