Archive · 19 Aug 2026
Devdutt Padikkal Emerges as India’s Likely New No. 3
Devdutt Padikkal played a Test match for India after being away from the format for nearly two years.
He scored 167 runs in one innings and 44 in another.
His batting helped India move closer to winning against Sri Lanka in Galle.
He got to play because Sai Sudharsan injured his toe.
India may be considering Padikkal as a replacement for Cheteshwar Pujara at the important No.
3 position.
Padikkal said Test cricket is his biggest goal.
He explained that he changes his batting style for red-ball cricket.
He also said he tries not to overthink and instead reacts to each ball.
His next major test is expected to come in New Zealand later this year.
Devdutt Padikkal scored 167 and 44 in his first Test in nearly two years.
His performance helped India move strongly toward victory in the Galle Test against Sri Lanka.
Padikkal received his opportunity after Sai Sudharsan suffered a toe injury.
The left-hander is viewed as a potential replacement for Cheteshwar Pujara at No. 3.
Padikkal said Test cricket remains his ultimate goal and that he keeps his red-ball approach simple.
- Who
- Devdutt Padikkal, the India left-hander, is being considered as a possible replacement for Cheteshwar Pujara at No. 3.
- What
- Padikkal scored 167 and 44 in his first Test in nearly two years.
- When
- He made the scores during the Galle Test; the article says his next major test will be in New Zealand later this year.
- Where
- Galle, Sri Lanka.
- Why
- He received an opportunity after Sai Sudharsan suffered a toe injury, and his performance strengthened his case for the No. 3 role.
- Player
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Scores
- 167 and 44
- Format
- Test cricket
- Position
- Potential India No. 3
- Opportunity
- Sai Sudharsan’s toe injury
- Previous incumbent
- Cheteshwar Pujara
- Next challenge
- New Zealand later this year