Introduction
Devdutt Padikkal has quickly become one of the biggest talking points in India’s Test batting setup. After receiving an opportunity in the Sri Lanka series, the left-hander has responded with back-to-back centuries, making a strong case for the No. 3 position.
Padikkal scored 167 in the first Test at Galle before following it with 117 in Colombo. His second century helped India reach 300/5 at stumps on Day 1 of the second Test. For cricket followers on Kingexch, his rise is particularly interesting because India now have a genuine selection question. Is Padikkal simply enjoying a superb series, or has India found a long-term No. 3?
How Padikkal Grabbed His Opportunity
Padikkal came into the Test side after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out of the Sri Lanka series through injury. The opportunity arrived at an important point in his career, and he has taken it impressively.
His performances so far include:
- 167 in the Galle Test
- 117 in the Colombo Test
- Two consecutive Test centuries
- Strong partnerships with India’s top order
- Composure against spin
- Ability to build lengthy innings
His Galle century was particularly significant because it was his maiden Test hundred and became the centrepiece of India’s 460/9 first innings.
Why No. 3 Is Such an Important Position
The No. 3 batter occupies one of the most demanding positions in Test cricket. If an opener falls early, the No. 3 can face a relatively new ball and an aggressive bowling attack.
A successful No. 3 generally needs:
- Strong defensive technique
- Patience against quality bowling
- Good judgment outside the off stump
- Ability to rotate the strike
- Confidence against spin
- Concentration over long periods
Padikkal has shown several of these qualities during his current run.
What His Galle Century Revealed
Padikkal’s 167 in Galle showed that he could convert a start into a major Test innings. He struck 15 fours and a six and played a key role as India built a substantial first-innings total.
The innings was valuable because India needed someone to bat deep and absorb pressure. Padikkal did more than simply reach three figures. He continued batting and turned his maiden century into a score of 167.
That ability to convert centuries into big scores is particularly valuable in Test cricket.
The Colombo Century Makes His Case Stronger
The second Test provided even stronger evidence. Padikkal scored 117 from 193 deliveries on the opening day in Colombo, helping India recover from early wickets.
He shared a 120-run third-wicket partnership with captain Shubman Gill before Gill was dismissed for 50. Padikkal later added another useful partnership with Ravindra Jadeja. India finished the day on 300/5.
The fact that Padikkal produced another century immediately after his Galle performance is what makes this run especially impressive.
What Makes Padikkal a Useful Option?
Padikkal gives India a left-handed option in the top order and has shown an ability to play both pace and spin with patience.
His current strengths include:
- Left-handed batting
- Strong concentration
- Patience against spin
- Ability to build partnerships
- Good shot selection
- Confidence after reaching three figures
His partnership with Gill in Colombo also showed that he can provide stability alongside India’s captain.
Can Padikkal Keep the No. 3 Spot?
That remains the biggest question.
Two consecutive centuries have significantly strengthened Padikkal’s case, but a permanent position will depend on what happens over a longer period. India have several talented batters competing for places, and Sai Sudharsan remains part of the wider discussion once he is fit.
Padikkal can strengthen his position by:
- Maintaining consistency
- Performing in different conditions
- Scoring against quality pace attacks
- Converting starts regularly
- Staying fit
- Handling increased expectations
The Sri Lanka series has opened the door, but future performances will determine whether he can keep it open.
Competition Could Benefit India
Competition for the No. 3 role is not necessarily a problem for India. Having multiple quality options gives the selectors greater flexibility.
Padikkal’s current form gives India another dependable option, while Sudharsan’s eventual return could create an interesting selection battle.
Fans following the Sri Lanka series through King Exchange 9 can also watch how India manage this competition and whether Padikkal continues to receive opportunities.
Why His Rise Matters for India
India are looking to build a strong Test batting group for the future. Younger players who can handle pressure and play long innings are extremely valuable.
Padikkal’s recent performances suggest that he could become part of that transition.
His rise offers India:
- Greater batting depth
- A left-handed top-order option
- More selection flexibility
- Competition for important positions
- Another player capable of playing long Test innings
Conclusion
Devdutt Padikkal has made an impressive statement during India’s Sri Lanka series. His 167 in Galle followed by 117 in Colombo has transformed him from a replacement player into a serious candidate for India’s No. 3 position.
Two centuries do not automatically guarantee a permanent place, but Padikkal has given the selectors plenty to consider. His ability to build big scores, handle pressure, and contribute at a crucial position makes him one of the most interesting young batters in India’s current Test setup.
For users following cricket analysis on King Exchange, Padikkal’s progress will be one of the most interesting selection stories to watch as India plans its future Test batting combination.
FAQs
Why is Devdutt Padikkal batting at No. 3?
Padikkal moved into the No. 3 role after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out of the Sri Lanka series through injury.
How many centuries has Padikkal scored in the Sri Lanka series?
He has scored two consecutive Test centuries, making 167 in Galle and 117 in Colombo.
Why is No. 3 important in Test cricket?
The No. 3 batter can face the new ball soon after an early wicket, so the position requires technique, patience, concentration, and adaptability.
Can Padikkal become India’s permanent No. 3?
His recent performances have strongly improved his case, but long-term selection will depend on continued consistency and competition from other batters.
What is Padikkal’s biggest strength?
His ability to remain patient and convert opportunities into substantial innings has been one of the strongest features of his recent Test performances.
