Archive · 23 Aug 2026
Pujara backs Padikkal for India’s No. 3 slot
India is trying to find a reliable batter for the No.
3 position in Test matches.
Devdutt Padikkal recently scored 167 and 44 in a Test in Galle.
Cheteshwar Pujara thinks Padikkal should get more chances in that role.
However, Padikkal must keep scoring runs to make the place his own.
Pujara said good performances in New Zealand and against Australia would help.
He also said India should not put too much pressure on Padikkal after one strong match.
Pujara believes Sai Sudharsan should still be considered for the Test squad.
He also said domestic cricket is important because it prepares players for international challenges.
Cheteshwar Pujara supports Devdutt Padikkal continuing at No. 3 for India.
Padikkal scored 167 and 44 in the Galle Test.
Pujara says consistent performances are needed to secure the position long term.
He believes Padikkal’s form in upcoming New Zealand and Australia series will be decisive.
Pujara urged India to value domestic cricket and keep Sai Sudharsan in Test-squad consideration.
- Who
- Cheteshwar Pujara discussed Devdutt Padikkal’s prospects, with Sai Sudharsan also mentioned as a Test-squad candidate.
- What
- Pujara backed Padikkal to continue batting at No. 3 while calling for consistent performances and greater emphasis on domestic cricket.
- When
- The comments were made on Saturday; India’s second and final Test against Sri Lanka was scheduled to begin the following Saturday.
- Where
- The upcoming Test was scheduled at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, Sri Lanka; Padikkal’s previous scores came in Galle.
- Why
- Pujara said consistency in upcoming series against New Zealand and Australia would determine whether Padikkal cements the position.
- Padikkal’s Galle scores
- 167 and 44 at No. 3
- Pujara’s Test record
- 7,195 runs in 103 matches
- Pujara’s first-class record
- 21,301 runs
- Upcoming Sri Lanka match
- Second and final Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo
- Future challenges
- A two-Test tour of New Zealand followed by a five-Test series against Australia
- Other player mentioned
- Sai Sudharsan should remain in India’s Test-squad plans
- Selection principle
- Pujara said domestic performances should receive significant importance when selecting India’s Test squad