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Devdutt Padikkal vs Sai Sudharsan: Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly backed Devdutt Padikkal. Ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka starting August 23 at the Sinhalese Sports Club ground in Colombo Ashwin emphasized that the team management should retain the in-form Padikkal in the playing XI, despite the return of Sai Sudharsan.
Devdutt Padikkal's Historic Performance in the Galle Test
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Playing as a replacement for Sai Sudharsan in the first Test at Galle, Devdutt Padikkal grabbed everyone's attention with his performance.
- Superb Batting: Padikkal played excellent innings of 167 runs in the first innings and 44 runs in the second.
- Big Win: Thanks to this powerful batting display, India defeated Sri Lanka by a massive margin of 165 runs.
- Player of the Match: Devdutt Padikkal was honored with this prestigious award for his match-winning performance.
Also Read: IND vs SL 1st Test Highlights: India Victory in Historic 600th Test Match
Ashwin Praises Padikkal's Technique and First-Class Experience
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Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin praised Padikkal's technique and the hard work he has put in within domestic cricket. He noted that Padikkal looked very comfortable against fast bowlers during the practice matches at the WACA ahead of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
- Footwork and Shuffling: Ashwin lauded Padikkal's back-foot game, excellent use of his feet, and his ability to shuffle from the back to the front of the crease.
- Benefit of Domestic Cricket: According to Ashwin, Padikkal has honed his skills by spending time in the first-class cricket system, the results of which are now visible at the international level.
- Slip Fielding: Apart from his batting, Padikkal is an excellent slip fielder.
Strong Contender for No. 3 Spot in New Zealand Series
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Ashwin believes that while both Sudharsan and Padikkal could make it into the playing XI, it would be very difficult for the team to leave Padikkal out given his current form. He suggested that if Padikkal scores runs in the second Test as well, he should be entrusted with the responsibility of batting at number 3 during the upcoming New Zealand tour.
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