Wasim Jaffer underlined the importance of Padikkal’s strategy while acknowledging Sudharsan‘s qualifications. The former India opener pointed out that Sudharsan has a strong record, including an Orange Cap award and IPL victory, and that he has time on his side. But according to Jaffer, Padikkal’s approach has a clear benefit in contemporary cricket.
As part of the 2025–2027 ICC World Test Championship, India is now touring Sri Lanka for a two-Test series. Devdutt Padikkal scored a fluid 167 in the first Test in Galle, which took place from August 15–19. India finished with 462 in the first innings, giving the series a good start. On Day 1, Padikkal scored his first Test century from 134 balls, raising his first-class average above 44 at the age of 26.
Why wasim Jaffer supports Padikkal’s assertive strategy
Had Sai Sudharsan not been sidelined on August 9 due to a stress fracture of the toe, Padikkal most likely would not have participated in this Test match. Padikkal got his chance in the top order when India substituted another left-hand batsman for the injured Sudharsan at number three. Before the injury, Sudharsan, a 24-year-old who averages slightly under 43 in first-class cricket, was their third-best batsman.
How Padikkal’s approach varies from Sudharsan’s
Sudharsan’s method is different from Padikkal’s at the crease. Padikkal favoured staying back to spin during the first Test, although not quite in the Sudharsan manner; he possessed the sweep and reverse-sweep, looked to attack from the back foot, and danced down the track to toy with bowlers’ lengths. Observers have noticed this aggressive intent.
On Sunday, August 23, the crucial second Test will begin at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. With another victory next week, India hopes to quadruple its current total of 12 WTC points from the series.
