Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly backed Devdutt Padikkal as a long-term solution for India’s number three spot in Test cricket following the batter’s impressive performance for Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026. Padikkal once again showcased his elegance and composure with a fluent 39 off just 27 balls in Raipur.

Batting at number three, the left-hander struck seven boundaries and looked in complete control throughout his innings. His performance further highlighted the maturity and technical growth that have caught Ashwin’s attention over the last couple of seasons. India have continued searching for stability at the crucial No. 3 position in Test cricket, trying multiple options including Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan.

However, neither batter has fully secured the role on a long-term basis. Ravichandran Ashwin believes Padikkal possesses the temperament and skillset required to succeed in red-ball cricket for India. “I want Devdutt Padikkal to be India’s No. 3 in Test cricket. He has batted so well, and he deserves to be an incumbent Test player for India. He should be given a long-term chance,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

WATCH – Virat Kohli Opens Up On Cameras Constantly Following Cricketers During IPL

The former India off-spinner also praised Padikkal’s improved approach against spin bowling and noted the evolution in his game since their time together at the Rajasthan Royals.

“If you look at his sixes, it is all about the timing. When I see his batting, I feel that there is a little bit of Dinesh Karthik’s imprint. He is very proactive against spinners. He was there with me in RR, and at the time, he used to play spinners on the back foot. Now, he plays the reverse sweep and sweep. He also has the feet usage,” Ravichandran Ashwin added.

Ravichandran Ashwin also reflected on how IPL performances increasingly influence national team selections.

WATCH – Hasan Ali Stretchered Off After Suffering Head Injury During BAN vs PAK Test

“Padikkal was the front runner in the race for the Test cricket team, but Sai Sudharsan surpassed him. Sudharsan is also a good player, but he batted ahead of Padikkal. How did he get that opportunity? Because he was the Orange Cap holder in IPL. Whether it is right or wrong, if you perform in IPL along with First-Class cricket, your selection becomes much easier. But I am happy Padikkal’s talent and ability is coming out this season,” he concluded.