Padikkal Focused on Performance as India No. 3 Spot Remains Open

Devdutt Padikkal has made a strong statement in his latest opportunity for India, but the left-hander knows that big scores alone may not guarantee him a permanent place in the Test XI.

Padikkal scored an impressive 167 in the first innings and followed it with 44 in the second innings of the first Test against Sri Lanka. Despite his outstanding contribution, the Karnataka batter remains cautious about his long-term prospects, with Sai Sudharsan currently established as India’s preferred No. 3.

Padikkal is expected to retain his place for the second Test, but he said he has not discussed his future role with either the selectors or the team management.

“It’s important that whenever you get that opportunity, you have to just take it. I don’t really go looking for those conversations,” Padikkal said after the third day’s play.

“For me, it’s important that whenever I get that chance, I perform.”

The batter said he does not want to focus on securing a guaranteed run of matches, particularly in the highly competitive environment of modern international cricket.

“I don’t really put too much emphasis on getting a run of games or things like that. In modern cricket, you cannot really expect those kinds of things. It’s a highly result-driven business,” he said.

“Whenever you go out there, you are expected to perform. If you are not doing that, you are always on the line in terms of your job. If I am scoring runs, I am sure I will play more games.”

Strong Understanding with KL Rahul

Padikkal also spoke about his successful partnership with KL Rahul in the first innings. The pair added 150 runs before Rahul was forced to retire hurt after suffering severe cramps.

Their understanding was helped by their experience together for Karnataka, where they have already shared several partnerships.

“Batting with KL has always been enjoyable. I think I have played quite a few innings with him now, even with Karnataka as well. We have had some long partnerships, and I think we play well with each other,” Padikkal said.

“He understands the way I bat, the tempo in which I bat, and I do the same as well. When you have that kind of chemistry, I think it helps in stitching that partnership and really pushing the limits of how far we can go.”

Dravid Continues to Be a Source of Support

Padikkal also revealed that he remains in touch with former India head coach Rahul Dravid, who played a key role in the early stages of his Test career.

Dravid was India’s head coach when Padikkal made his Test debut and has continued to be someone the batter can turn to for advice.

“Dravid has always been a great support. I made my debut under him, and he has always been open to having a chat whenever I needed to,” Padikkal said.

The batter added that senior members of the Indian team have also been supportive and willing to share their experiences.

“I think everyone, for that matter — all the senior players around — are really helpful in terms of being open to having those conversations.”

With his big scores against Sri Lanka, Padikkal has given the Indian team plenty to consider. However, rather than looking too far ahead, he remains focused on the simple task of converting every opportunity into runs.