Devdutt Padikkal's series performance strengthens case for permanent No. 3 role
Devdutt Padikkal's strong series against Sri Lanka has made him the frontrunner for India's No. 3 batting position ahead of the New Zealand tour.
Devdutt Padikkal's consistent run-scoring in India's 1-0 series win over Sri Lanka has positioned him as the leading candidate for the No. 3 position in the longer term.
The Karnataka batter scored centuries in both Tests and earned Player of the Series honours, showing the temperament required for the demanding position.
Ajinkya Rahane noted that Padikkal has done enough to temporarily secure the spot, though the New Zealand tour will provide a sterner examination of his technique against seam movement.
CricHubb Take
Padikkal's selection represents a deliberate shift toward players who have proven themselves in domestic cricket rather than those with early international exposure but inconsistent red-ball records.