Devdutt Padikkal's Unbeaten 142 Strengthens His Case for India's No. 3 Test Spot

Devdutt Padikkal has thrust himself into the conversation for India's No. 3 Test spot after an outstanding unbeaten 142 in the first innings of India's warm-up match against a Sri Lanka Cricket XI in Colombo.

Batting at number three, Padikkal anchored India's innings across 164 balls, striking 18 fours as he built crucial partnerships through the middle order, including an 82-run stand with Manav Suthar. His knock allowed India to declare at 357 for 6, trailing by just six runs, and set the platform for the eventual six-wicket win over the Sri Lanka XI.

The timing is significant, with the No. 3 slot up for grabs following Sai Sudharsan's injury withdrawal from the squad. Padikkal's century, combined with the pressure it puts on the selectors, has made him a serious contender to walk into the XI for the opening Test in Galle on August 15.