Ravichandran Ashwin Advocates for Devdutt Padikkal as India's No. 3 Test Batter
R Ashwin Wants RCB Star To Be India's No.3 In Tests: "Should Be Given Long-Term Chance"
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Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his support for Devdutt Padikkal, urging the Indian cricket team to consider him for the No. 3 batting position in Test matches. Padikkal, who has shown promise in the IPL, has played two Tests in 2024, scoring 90 runs, and Ashwin believes he deserves a long-term opportunity in the role.
- 01Devdutt Padikkal scored 39 runs off 27 balls in an IPL match against Kolkata Knight Riders.
- 02Padikkal has played two Test matches for India in 2024, scoring 90 runs across three innings.
- 03Ravichandran Ashwin praised Padikkal's batting technique and timing, comparing him to Dinesh Karthik.
- 04Sai Sudharsan, the current No. 3 for India, was the Orange Cap holder in IPL 2025.
- 05Ashwin highlighted the importance of IPL performance in influencing selection for the national team.
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Ravichandran Ashwin, the former all-rounder for India, has endorsed Devdutt Padikkal as a strong candidate for the No. 3 batting position in the Indian Test cricket team. Following Padikkal's impressive performance in the IPL 2026 match against Kolkata Knight Riders, where he scored 39 runs off 27 balls, Ashwin emphasized that Padikkal's skills warrant a long-term opportunity in the Test lineup. Despite Padikkal's previous role as a number four batter in his two Test appearances in 2024, Ashwin believes he has demonstrated sufficient talent to merit a consistent position at number three. He noted Padikkal's proactive approach against spin bowling and his ability to adapt his technique, drawing parallels to Dinesh Karthik's style. Currently, Sai Sudharsan occupies the No. 3 spot for India, having gained recognition as the Orange Cap holder in IPL 2025. Ashwin acknowledged Sudharsan's talent but reiterated his belief that Padikkal should be given a fair chance to prove himself in the Test arena.
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