Padikkal Shines at No. 3: Devdutt Padikkal Emerges as Strong No. 3 Option for India
Devdutt Padikkal has made a strong comeback to Test cricket, scoring centuries in consecutive matches against Sri Lanka and strengthening India’s search for a reliable No. 3 batter.
Padikkal Shines at No. 3: Devdutt Padikkal’s return to the Indian Test side is turning into a success story. After spending nearly two years away from the format, the left hander has grabbed his opportunity with two impressive performances against Sri Lanka.
Padikkal first made his mark in the opening Test at Galle. He scored 167 in the first innings and followed it with a valuable 44 in the second. His contribution helped India secure a strong result, and he was named Player of the Match.
He did not stop there. In the second Test, Padikkal once again stayed at the crease when India lost wickets around him. He built useful partnerships with Shubman Gill and Ravindra Jadeja before reaching another century.
His recent run of form has not come out of nowhere. Padikkal had a productive domestic season, scoring 543 runs in six Ranji Trophy matches at an average above 60. He was even more consistent in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he made 725 runs in nine matches at an average above 90.
His performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL also helped his case for an India comeback. Before the Sri Lanka series, Padikkal spent time preparing specifically for spin friendly conditions, including practice with the Kookaburra ball in Bengaluru.
He also made 142 not out in the tour match against Sri Lanka A, giving the selectors another reason to consider him for the playing XI. An injury to Sai Sudharsan eventually opened the door for Padikkal to take the crucial No. 3 position.
India have been searching for a dependable batter at No. 3 since Cheteshwar Pujara’s departure. Several players have been tried in the role, but none have managed to hold the position for long. Sudharsan had shown promise before an injury ruled him out.
Padikkal now has a chance to change that situation. His technique, patience and recent consistency have given India a promising option in the middle order. If he can maintain this form over the coming matches, the long search for a reliable No. 3 batter could finally be nearing its end.
