Lokesh Rahul Shows the Way Against Sri Lanka With a Much-Awaited Century

Lokesh Rahul silenced his critics with a resilient century - his career's second -- on the opening day of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Thursday. After a forgettable first Test at Galle last week -- where he scored seven and five -- the rookie India opener was dogged in his resolve to make the most of yet another opportunity and blunted the Sri Lankan bowling attack with appreciable ease. He scored 108 before top-edging a rising delivery to the wicket-keeper. (Scorecard | Blog)

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India lost opener Murali Vijay (0) and Ajinkya Rahane (4) inside five overs. Rahul though anchored himself at his end and managed to negotiate the early seam movement at the P Sara Oval Stadium. He had a rock-solid partner in Virat Kohli (78) at the other end and the two put on 164 for the third wicket.(Kohli Misses 12th Test Ton)

While Kohli led the innings for the most parts and hardly made any errors till falling to Rangana Herath's spin, Rahul was guilty of offering his wicket on a platter to the fielder at gully. Batting on 11, he was however dropped by Jehan Mubarak off Dushmanta Chameera's bowling. The lifeline was just what he needed as Rahul eventually managed to stitch together a 94-ball 50.

Once he reached his half-century, Rahul took the lead in scoring - overtaking his captain at the other end. Even Kohli's eventual wicket hardly looked like it had any impact on Rahul as he made his way to the three-figure mark off 180 balls. His knock had 12 fours and 1 six.

There were many question marks on Rahul and whether he should be in India's playing XI for the Colombo Test. NDTV cricket expert Dean Jones had said he wasn't much in favour of Rahul's inclusion despite his gritty maiden Test ton against Australia in Sydney earlier this year. Rahul's ton in Colombo though once again is testament to the fact that he has the talent and technique to hit big when least expected to do so.