India are set to begin their crucial two-Test series against Sri Lanka in Galle on August 15, with Devdutt Padikkal in line for a major opportunity at No. 3. Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane believes the left-hander has the ability to establish himself in the Test XI if he can make the most of the chance. Padikkal is expected to replace Sai Sudharsan, who has been ruled out of the Sri Lanka series after suffering a stress injury to his right big toe during the India A tour.

With the No. 3 position open, Padikkal has an important opportunity to strengthen his case for a longer run in Test cricket. The 26-year-old has played only four Tests for India, with his most recent appearance coming against Australia in Perth during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Since then, Padikkal has focused heavily on domestic cricket and built momentum with consistent performances across formats.

His recent form has been particularly encouraging. Padikkal scored an unbeaten 142 in India’s warm-up game against Sri Lanka Cricket XI, providing a timely reminder of his ability ahead of the Test series. He also enjoyed an excellent 2025-26 Ranji Trophy campaign, scoring 543 runs in six matches at an average of more than 60.

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Ajinkya Rahane believes Sri Lankan conditions could suit Padikkal, particularly against spin. However, he has warned the Karnataka batter that the opening phase of his innings will be crucial, especially while batting at No. 3. “The Sri Lankan conditions will suit him really well. He just needs to overcome the initial phase because he will bat at No. 3. Once he is set, he has the complete arsenal against spin off the front and back foot,” Rahane said on his YouTube channel.

According to Ajinkya Rahane, Padikkal must remain proactive and look to put pressure on Sri Lanka’s bowlers once he settles at the crease. His ability to use strokes such as the cut and sweep, along with his willingness to step out against spin, could become important in Galle.

Rahane also urged Padikkal to trust his current form rather than put additional pressure on himself. He believes the batter’s recent performances show that he is in the right rhythm to make an impact.

At the same time, Ajinkya Rahane warned Shubman Gill and India against becoming complacent because of their strong record against Sri Lanka. India have won their last four Test series against the island nation and have not lost a series against them since 2008.

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The upcoming series is particularly important in the World Test Championship cycle, with India currently fifth in the 2025-27 standings. Rahane believes India must focus on winning each Test rather than thinking too far ahead about a 2-0 result. He expects Sri Lanka to provide a strong challenge and feels the series could be closely contested. For India, the priority will be to handle key moments better, while Padikkal will look to turn his latest opportunity into a permanent place in the Test team.