'Pleasing to the eye': Ex-India cricketer calls Devdutt Padikkal 'boost' for No. 3 spot after another Test ton

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has commended Devdutt Padikkal for his impressive performance in the second Test against Sri Lanka, predicting the young batsman will be a welcome addition to the No. 3 spot in India's Test lineup. Padikkal scored 117 runs off 193 balls on day one, guiding India to a solid 300-5. IrfanPathan, writing on X, remarked on Padikkal's pleasing batting style, describing him as "pleasing to the eye."

The former cricketer praised the 24-year-old's patient innings, which lasted nearly five hours and included 12 boundaries. Padikkal's partnership with captain Shubman Gill yielded 120 runs, while he added another 74 runs with Ravindra Jadeja. Gill departed after scoring 50, and Jadeja was bowled by Asitha Fernando. Despite early losses to Yashaswi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, India's innings recovery was bolstered by Padikkal's strong showing.

The team's injury woes were further compounded by the retirement of Rishabh Pant due to an injury sustained while attempting a pull shot. Sri Lanka, adjusting their squad with Pasindu Sooriyabandara retaining his spot and Kamil Mishara making his debut, were led by bowler Fernando, who claimed three crucial wickets. India, who won the first Test in Galle by 165 runs, will aim to secure the two-match series.