Colombo, Sep 1 (IANS): Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara said his experience in international cricket helped him make an impactful comeback into the Test team, which eventually helped his side win the third match and beat Sri Lanka 2-1 here on Tuesday.

The third and final Test against the hosts at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground here is the 27-year-old's first match since playing against Australia in December 2014.

He returned with a brilliant unbeaten first innings century (145 not out) which helped his side take a crucial first innings lead, eventually helping India to grab their first series win in Sri Lanka after 22 years.

"It was a very good opportunity for me, we were 1-1 and we won the series now. Facing the new ball was challenging, it was an opportunity as well. My preparation was good, and my experience in international cricket has helped," said Pujara, who was also adjudged the man of the match.

The 289-ball 145, which included 14 boundaries, was Pujara's seventh Test century. However, he was bowled for a duck in the second innings.

This is India's first overseas series win since beating the West Indies in 2011. It is only the third time India have come back from 0-1 down in Test history and also Virat Kohli's first series win as captain.