The first Test between India and Sri Lanka in Galle has provided a major boost to Devdutt Padikkal, who registered the first century of his Test career. The left-hander had been waiting for an opportunity in the playing XI and made the most of his chance after being promoted to the No. 3 position.
Padikkal's confidence was already high after he struck a 142-run century against Sri Lanka XI in the warm-up game. His hundred in the Test has now strengthened his case for a regular spot in India's middle order, particularly with crucial WTC 2025-27 assignments against New Zealand and Australia still to come.
Sai Sudharsan faces selection pressure
Padikkal's breakthrough could create a major selection dilemma for India if Sai Sudharsan returns to full fitness. Sudharsan missed the Sri Lanka series after suffering a thumb injury during India A's tour of the island nation.
Although Sarfaraz Khan was brought into the squad as his replacement, the team management opted to hand Padikkal the No. 3 role. The Karnataka batter has responded with back-to-back centuries, making it difficult for the selectors to overlook his current form.
Sudharsan yet to make a major impact
Sudharsan has featured in seven Tests, scoring 383 runs at an average of 31.92. He is still searching for his maiden Test century, although he has registered two half-centuries in his last five innings.
Padikkal, meanwhile, has already scored a Test hundred in only his fourth innings. His emergence gives India another strong contender for the No. 3 position and could make Sudharsan's return particularly challenging.
With the WTC cycle featuring demanding series against New Zealand and Australia ahead, the selectors will have a difficult call to make: stick with Sudharsan or reward Padikkal's outstanding run of form?
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