We value Test cricket: Gary Kirsten reveals conversation with Gautam Gambhir after India beat Sri Lanka

India defeated Sri Lanka by 165 runs in the first Test at Galle on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, in a commanding performance that showcased strong batting and bowling. Devdutt Padikkal was named Player of the Match after scoring 167 in India's first innings and 44 in the second, anchoring the team's batting effort. Manav Suthar took a match haul of 10 wickets on the final day, registering his maiden 10-wicket haul in only his second Test appearance.

India's scores read 462 and 193 across two innings, while Sri Lanka managed 284 and 206. The victory gave India a 1-0 lead in the two-match series and earned the team 12 World Test Championship points. This was India's 600th Test match, marking a significant milestone for the nation's cricket history.

Kirsten and Gambhir share a history spanning three years, when Kirsten coached Gambhir during his playing career with India. The two worked together during India's 2011 World Cup campaign, where Gambhir scored 97 in the final.

"Both me and Gautam Gambhir value Test cricket and there is a certain way we both want our teams to play. Good conversation with him but it was more about the challenges of coaching," Kirsten said at the post-match press conference.

Kirsten had publicly backed Gambhir before this series began, highlighting the respect between the two coaches.

"He has won a T20 World Cup and the ICC Champions Trophy. He's also had success in the IPL. His record speaks for itself. I really enjoyed working with him when he was a player," Kirsten said.

"He's a smart cricketer, and I knew he'd have success as coach." Kirsten concluded.

Sri Lanka and India will lock horns in the second and final Test of the series at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, starting Sunday, August 23. India will look to carry the momentum from the opening Test and seal the series, while Sri Lanka will aim to bounce back and level the series.