Padikkal and Suthar performances point to India A fast-track selection model

Devdutt Padikkal scored 167 on his Test return and shared a substantial partnership with KL Rahul at number three. Manav Suthar took 17 wickets in his first two Tests, including ten in Galle, and showed variations that troubled Sri Lanka's middle order.

KL Rahul said the India A tours helped younger players adapt to Test cricket conditions. Padikkal noted that batting at number three requires understanding what has already happened on the pitch rather than forcing the tempo.

Cheteshwar Pujara urged Suthar to remain a red-ball specialist and avoid adapting his natural style for white-ball cricket. India take a 1-0 lead into the Colombo Test with Saransh Jain in line for a possible debut if selectors add another spinner.