India batting order of Sai Sudharsan He may face an interesting selection decision when he returns from injury. Devdutt Padikkal Was handed the No. 3 role in the first Test in Sudharsan's absence and produced an impressive performance in Galle. His efforts helped India register a 165-run win and he also received the Player of the Match award. With both batsmen having strong first-class records, the former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has now clarified what qualities he would prefer for this post.
Wasim Jaffer gives his opinion on India's No. 3 selection debate
Padikkal got the chance at No. 3 when Sudharsan was ruled out with a right toe injury. The left-handed batsman made a significant impact, scoring 167 runs off 230 balls in the first innings and then contributing 44 runs off 75 balls in the second innings. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer believes that Padikkal should continue in the role even when Sudharsan becomes available.
The former opener pointed to Padikkal's first-class statistics and record of scoring big centuries and double centuries for Karnataka. Jaffer also believes that Padikkal's style of batting could be particularly useful for India. He highlighted the left-handed batsman's aggressive playing style and willingness to put pressure on the opposition bowlers.
“I believe Devdutt should be given an opportunity because his first-class figures are very good. He has scored big centuries and double centuries for Karnataka. He is a left-handed batsman and plays a bit aggressively. And that is what is needed at the moment, in my opinion, considering the way cricket is being played these days,” Jaffer said.
Wasim Jaffer clarified his views on Sai Sudharsan
Jaffer also acknowledged Sudharsan's achievements and suggested that the young batsman has ample time to establish himself in Test cricket. The 24-year-old has already IPL He has made a name for himself and won the Orange Cap, but Jaffer believes that his batting style is somewhat more traditional than Padikkal.
“I believe Sai Sudharsan has time. Perhaps Sudharsan is a slightly more traditional player. Even though he plays in the IPL and has won the Orange Cap, I think Devdutt has a slight edge,” Jaffer said.
The first-class statistics of both the batsmen are also impressive. Padikkal has scored 4,011 runs in 57 matches at an average of 44.56, including 10 centuries and 21 half-centuries. At the same time, Sudharsan has scored 3,004 runs in 42 first-class matches, with an average of 42.91, which includes 10 centuries and 10 half-centuries. With Padikkal having made the most of his opportunity against Sri Lanka, India may have to make a difficult selection decision when Sudharsan returns to the team.