Sri Lanka’s spin and fielding coach Jordan Gregory praised India batters Devdutt Padikkal (131 not out of 178 balls) and KL Rahul (retired hurt on 77) for taking the game to Sri Lanka on Day One of the opening Test in Galle on Saturday.

India ended the rain-shortened day on 288-2 after 73 overs. Padikkal and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant (27 not out) were at the crease at stumps.