Even if Sai Sudharsan heals from his toe injury, Ravichandran Ashwin has supported Devdutt Padikkal to hold India’s No. 3 spot. After Sudharsan was sidelined due to a stress fracture he suffered during India A’s tour of Sri Lanka, Padikkal secured his spot in the current Test series. With impressive performances in his most recent games, the left-handed hitter has presented a strong argument for his ongoing selection.
Ashwin’s remarks follow Padikkal’s first Test century against Sri Lanka on August 15, 2026, which also happened to be India’s 600th Test match. Padikkal demonstrated the technical proficiency and temperament that Ashwin emphasised in that game by scoring 167 in the first innings and 44 in the second.
Ashwin is impressed by Padikkal’s skill and disposition.
Padikkal’s technical execution and fielding skills were commended by Ashwin, who also mentioned that the batter’s dedication to first-class cricket had enhanced his Test credentials. The seasoned spinner highlighted that Padikkal’s growth in domestic cricket was a step in the right direction for Indian cricket’s journey to the longest format.
For Padikkal to be ready for the Test, first-class cricket was essential.
While acknowledging that Padikkal’s opportunity had been made possible by Sudharsan’s injury, Ashwin emphasised that the left-hander’s performances had made it tough to ignore his claim to the position. Although Padikkal’s recent performance and technical advancements had made a compelling case for his retention, the spinner pointed out that Sudharsan had also scored runs in his prior game.
