Overview
- Devdutt Padikkal scored consecutive centuries in the Sri Lanka Tests, piling up 328 runs across the series and earning Player of the Match for a 167 in Galle.
- Former wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta publicly backed Padikkal in early September and Ravichandran Ashwin offered similar support, citing Padikkal's improved footwork and comfort against pace.
- B Sai Sudharsan missed the Sri Lanka Tests with a toe injury, which opened the No. 3 spot and allowed Padikkal to press his claim while Sudharsan recovers.
- No official selection has been announced ahead of India’s two-Test New Zealand tour, which begins at Basin Reserve in Wellington on November 19 with the second Test in Christchurch on November 27.
- The selectors’ choice will hinge on handling of New Zealand’s pace and movement, and Sudharsan’s fitness; a late-October squad pick is likely to decide whether Padikkal keeps the position or the contest reopens.