"A long way off" - Batting legend's huge statement on whether Devdutt Padikkal can be India's long-term No. 3 in Tests

Cheteshwar Pujara believes it is premature to determine if Devdutt Padikkal can be India’s permanent No. 3 in Test cricket. According to Pujara, Padikkal must demonstrate his capabilities in New Zealand and against Australia at home to secure his position.

Padikkal impressed with a score of 117 off 193 balls, leading India to 300-5 on the first day of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo (SSC) on Sunday, August 23. Previously, he earned the Player of the Match title in Galle with scores of 167 and 44.

Despite Padikkal’s outstanding performances in Sri Lanka, Pujara cautioned against rushing to conclusions about his suitability for the vital No. 3 slot in Test cricket. During a discussion on Cricinfo, he remarked:

“Yes, he will be batting at No. 3 in New Zealand. But, will he be the long-term No. 3 for India? That is a long way off. You don’t judge a player from a couple of Test matches. Yes, he has shown a lot of character and deserves a longer run at No. 3. India will play a couple of Test matches in New Zealand and there is a five-match Test series against Australia in India.

“If he consistently performs at No. 3 in both the series, then he will cement his place at No. 3. Let’s not put too much pressure on him,” Pujara added.

Team India is set to play two Tests in New Zealand from November to December, followed by hosting Australia for five Tests in early 2027.

“Maybe he was a little fatigued” – Pujara on Padikkal looking out of rhythm early in his knock

Padikkal showed excellent footwork and technique later in his innings, but initially, he struggled to gain momentum. He was given two chances before settling in and punishing Sri Lanka’s bowling. Reflecting on Padikkal’s contrasting form at the beginning of his innings and after facing around 40-50 balls, Pujara explained (via aforementioned source):

“Maybe he was a little fatigued. The moment he walked into bat, it didn’t look like he’s a guy in form. He was struggling a bit early on, but after a couple of chances and batting for 40-50 deliveries, he found his rhythm. After that, the way he batted, it was just brilliant.”

Padikkal struck 12 fours during his time at the crease. His impressive innings concluded when Keshara Nuwantha bowled him out with an exceptional delivery.