Kris Srikkanth Backs Devdutt Padikkal to Keep India’s No. 3 Spot

Devdutt Padikkal’s outstanding performance in the first Test against Sri Lanka has strengthened his case to remain India’s No. 3 batter, with former captain Kris Srikkanth suggesting that Sai Sudharsan could find it difficult to reclaim the position.

Padikkal entered the playing XI after Sudharsan was ruled out of the Sri Lanka series with a right toe injury. The left-hander made the most of his opportunity in Galle, scoring a magnificent 167 in the first innings and adding 44 in the second to finish with 211 runs across the match.

Srikkanth believes Padikkal’s consistency across both innings, combined with his strong domestic form, has given him a significant advantage in the competition for the No. 3 position.

Kris Srikkanth Backs Devdutt Padikkal to Retain No. 3 Spot

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kris Srikkanth praised Padikkal’s fluent strokeplay and stated that the young batter has effectively secured the No. 3 position for now.

“Padikkal has sealed the No.3 position. It’ll be hard for Sai Sudharsan to replace him. Padikkal played very fluently and batted well in both innings, which is most important. His domestic form is helping him a lot,” Srikkanth said.

The performance was particularly important because Padikkal had limited Test experience before the Galle encounter. He had played only two Tests for India, with his previous appearance coming against Australia in Perth in November 2024.

His ability to immediately convert an opportunity into a major score could therefore have a major impact on India’s middle-order plans for the remainder of the series.

Sai Sudharsan Faces Increased Competition After Injury

Sai Sudharsan had established himself as India’s preferred No. 3 in red-ball cricket during the previous year. However, his injury created an opening for Padikkal, who responded with an exceptional performance.

Sudharsan has played seven Tests since making his debut in England last year and has averaged below 32, with three half-centuries in 12 innings, according to the information provided in the report.

That means Sudharsan may need to wait for another opportunity unless the team management decides to make a change based on conditions, form or team balance.

Padikkal’s 167 in the first innings was particularly significant because it came under pressure after India lost wickets. His composed approach helped establish India’s innings and demonstrated that he could handle the responsibility associated with the No. 3 position.

Ravindra Jadeja Reaches Major Test Milestone

Srikkanth also praised veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja for reaching a remarkable milestone during the first Test against Sri Lanka.

Jadeja became only the fourth player after Kapil Dev, Daniel Vettori and Ian Botham to complete the Test double of 4,000 runs and 350 wickets.

“It’s an amazing achievement. 4000 runs and 350 wickets is no joke. And don’t forget, he has done well in places like England,” Srikkanth said.

The achievement underlines Jadeja’s longevity and importance to India’s Test setup. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball has made him one of the most valuable all-rounders in the team’s history.

Kris Srikkanth Praises Manav Suthar After 10-Wicket Haul

Srikkanth also highlighted the impressive performance of young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, who produced a match-winning display in only his second Test for India.

Suthar claimed 10 wickets in the match, including six in the second innings, to play a major role in India’s 165-run victory in Galle.

The 24-year-old has already collected two five-wicket hauls in his first four Test innings, making an impressive early impact in international cricket.

Srikkanth particularly praised Suthar’s ability to generate drift and loop, qualities that can make a left-arm spinner difficult for batters to handle.

“He gets excellent drift and loop. I really liked that about him even in the couple of matches he played for GT. That flight is the most important thing for a left-arm spinner and where you beat a batter,” he said.

India Take 1-0 Lead Against Sri Lanka

India secured a convincing 165-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle and took a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Padikkal’s century, Suthar’s 10-wicket haul and Jadeja’s all-round contribution were among the major positives for India. The performances have also created interesting selection questions ahead of the second Test.

The second Test will be played at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from Sunday, August 23. Padikkal will be hoping to build on his breakthrough performance, while Sudharsan will await his opportunity to return to the playing XI.