Playing in Sri Lanka has always been one of the toughest challenges for Test teams. Batsmen have to contend with variable bounce, movement with the new ball, and dangerous spin on turning pitches as the game progresses. For India, the No. 3 spot has often been occupied by technically proficient and patient batsmen capable of handling pressure and playing long innings. India played its first Test series on Sri Lankan soil in 1985. Since then, many Indian batsmen have made their mark in the island nation, yet few have recorded impressive statistics specifically while batting at No. 3.
The role of a No. 3 batsman in Test cricket is crucial. If an opener falls early, the No. 3 batsman steps in to bat during the most challenging phase of the innings. This responsibility becomes even greater given the difficult conditions and the formidable challenge posed by spinners in Sri Lanka.
1. Rahul Dravid
Rahul Dravid holds the Indian record for the most Test runs scored while batting at number 3 in Sri Lanka. Known globally as "The Wall," Dravid was one of India's finest Test batsmen. His superb defensive technique, concentration, and ability to play spin bowling made him the ideal batsman for challenging conditions.
Rahul Dravid scored 433 Test runs while batting at number 3 in Sri Lanka, placing him well ahead of other Indian players on this list. His overall record against Sri Lanka was also outstanding; he amassed 1,508 runs in 20 Test matches at an average of 48.64, including three centuries and nine half-centuries.
Throughout his Test career, Dravid scored 13,288 runs and established himself as one of the greatest number 3 batsmen in the history of Test cricket. His success in Sri Lanka was built not only on run-scoring but also on his ability to control the tempo of the innings. He was a master at defending patiently against quality spin, waiting for scoring opportunities, and wearing down the opposition's bowling attack.
2. Devdutt Padikkal
Devdutt Padikkal delivered an outstanding performance during India's Test series in Sri Lanka. The left-handed batsman was drafted into India's playing XI after Sai Sudharsan was ruled out due to injury. Padikkal immediately capitalized on the opportunity, playing several excellent innings at the number 3 position. He scored 167 runs in Galle, followed by an innings of 44 runs, and then struck another century (117 runs) in Colombo. By amassing a total of 328 runs across his first three innings at number 3 in Sri Lanka, he surpassed Pujara on this list.
His innings of 167 runs was particularly memorable, as it marked his maiden Test century and coincided with India's 600th Test match. He also became the second Indian left-handed batsman of the 21st century—after former captain Sourav Ganguly—to score a Test century at the number 3 spot. Thus, Padikkal's performance has provided India with another excellent option for the crucial number 3 position. His blend of patience and stroke-play on Sri Lankan pitches has been highly impressive.
3. Cheteshwar Pujara
Cheteshwar Pujara was one of India's most reliable Test batsmen, having spent a significant portion of his international career batting at the number 3 position. His defensive technique, patience, and ability to bat for long periods made him particularly effective in challenging Test conditions. Pujara enjoyed considerable success in Sri Lanka, especially during the memorable 2017 tour. He scored 309 runs across three matches at an impressive average of 77.25, with a highest score of 153. Two of his three Test centuries in Sri Lanka were scored while batting at number 3 during that very series in 2017.
His innings of 153 runs in Galle was a highlight of India's stellar performance in 2017. Pujara played a pivotal role in India's batting lineup as the team won the three-match Test series 3-0. Overall, Pujara concluded his Test career with 7,195 runs in 103 matches at an average of 43.60. His ability to withstand pressure and play long innings established him as one of the finest number 3 batsmen of his generation.Also Read: Indian players who have played the most matches in the WTC
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