Wasim Jaffer Highlights Padikkal’s Advantage in No. 3 Debate

Wasim Jaffer praised Sudharsan’s credentials while emphasising the importance of Padikkal’s approach. The former India opener remarked that Sudharsan has experience on his side and a proven track record, including IPL success and an Orange Cap award. However, Jaffer believes Padikkal’s style provides a significant advantage in modern cricket.

India is currently on tour in Sri Lanka, where they will play two Tests as part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship. Devdutt Padikkal scored a fluent 167 in the opening Test at Galle from August 15-19, and India finished with 462 in the first innings, putting the series on a solid footing. Padikkal scored his first Test century from 134 balls on Day 1, raising his first-class average above 44 at the age of 26.

Why Wasim Jaffer supports Padikkal’s strong approach.

Padikkal might not have played this Test match if Sai Sudharsan had not been sidelined with a stress fracture of the toe on August 9. India replaced the injured Sai Sudharsan with another left-handed batsman at No. 3, allowing Padikkal a chance in the top order. Sudharsan, 24, was their No. 3 batsman before the injury and averaged slightly under 43 in first-class cricket.

How does Padikkal’s style differ from Sai Sudharsan’s method?

Padikkal’s approach to the crease differs from Sai Sudharsan’s way. During the first Test, Padikkal tended to remain back to spin, but not in the same way as Sudharsan did; he aimed to attack from the back foot, had the sweep and reverse-sweep, and danced down the track to disrupt bowlers’ length. This aggressive intent has drawn the attention of observers.

The all-important second Test begins on Sunday, August 23, at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. India has already earned 12 WTC points from the series and would like to double that total with another win next week.