Ashwin Wants RCB Star Padikkal as India's Test No.3

R Ashwin Wants RCB Star Devdutt Padikkal as India's Long-Term Test No.3: "He Deserves a Chance"

In a strong endorsement that has sparked fresh debate in Indian cricket circles, legendary off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Devdutt Padikkal to become India’s long-term number three batsman in Test cricket. Speaking on his YouTube channel amid the ongoing IPL 2026 season, Ashwin said, “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.”

This statement comes at a crucial time. India has been searching for a reliable No. 3 batsman in the longest format for several years, following the era of stalwarts like Cheteshwar Pujara. Ashwin’s words carry significant weight given his experience and deep understanding of the game.

Who is Devdutt Padikkal?

Devdutt Padikkal, the elegant left-handed batsman from Karnataka, first burst onto the scene during his IPL debut for RCB in 2020, where he scored an impressive 473 runs. Now 25 years old, Padikkal has matured into a more complete player. He made his Test debut against England in March 2024 in Dharamsala, receiving his cap from none other than Ashwin himself. In two Test matches so far, he has scored 90 runs with a highest of 65.

While his red-ball international career is still in its early stages, Padikkal boasts a solid first-class record. He has scored 3,627 runs in 90 innings at an average of 42.67 for Karnataka, showcasing his ability to build innings and handle pressure.

Padikkal’s Explosive Form in IPL 2026

Padikkal’s current purple patch in the IPL has clearly impressed Ashwin. As of mid-May 2026, the RCB opener has accumulated 367 runs in 11 innings at a remarkable strike rate of 172.30, making him one of the team’s top performers. He has struck 38 fours and 20 sixes, displaying aggressive intent right from the start.

What stands out is Padikkal’s transformation. Once known for relatively slower starts in T20 cricket, he has reinvented himself with better power-hitting and proactive shot-making. Ashwin noted similarities with RCB mentor Dinesh Karthik in Padikkal’s timing and footwork, particularly against spinners. The young batter has added sweeps, reverse sweeps, and better use of his feet, making him more versatile.

This aggressive yet technically sound approach in white-ball cricket is what Ashwin believes can translate well to the longer format, especially at the crucial No. 3 position.

India’s Persistent No. 3 Problem in Tests

The number three slot in Test cricket is often regarded as one of the toughest in the game. It requires a perfect blend of solid defence, patience, technique against both pace and spin, and the ability to anchor the innings while building partnerships.

India has experimented with several players at No. 3 in recent years, including Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Karun Nair, Washington Sundar, and others. While some have shown flashes of brilliance, consistency has been elusive. This instability has been a talking point among fans and experts, especially with the World Test Championship cycle in focus.

Ashwin’s recommendation of Padikkal addresses this exact concern. By advocating for a “long-term chance,” the veteran spinner emphasizes the need for stability and backing a talented player through ups and downs rather than constant shuffling.

Why Padikkal Could Succeed at No. 3

Several factors work in Padikkal’s favour:

• Technical Soundness: His first-class average reflects strong fundamentals. Left-handed batsmen often trouble right-arm pacers and provide balance to the top order.
• Recent Red-Ball Exposure: His domestic performances and limited Test experience give him a foundation.
• Improved White-Ball Aggression: The confidence and shot selection gained in IPL 2026 can help him handle pressure situations in Tests.
• Mentorship: Playing alongside Virat Kohli at RCB and receiving guidance from coaches like Dinesh Karthik can accelerate his growth.
• Youth and Hunger: At 25, Padikkal has the prime years ahead to establish himself as a mainstay.

Ashwin highlighted Padikkal’s proactiveness against spinners, a vital skill on Indian pitches and in overseas conditions where spin plays a big role.

Challenges Ahead for Padikkal

Despite the strong backing, challenges remain. Test cricket demands immense concentration and resilience over long hours. Padikkal will need to work on converting starts into big scores consistently. Competition for spots is fierce, with talented players like Gill, Jaiswal, and others vying for top-order positions.

International tours, especially in challenging conditions like Australia or England, will test his temperament. Managing workload between IPL, domestic cricket, and international commitments will also be crucial to avoid burnout or injuries.

Broader Implications for Indian Cricket

Ashwin’s statement is more than just praise for one player — it reflects a larger conversation about team selection and long-term planning. In the post-Kohli-Pujara era, India is rebuilding its batting lineup. Giving young talents extended opportunities, as suggested, could help create a stable core for the next decade.

Selectors, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and captain Rohit Sharma (or his successor) will likely take note. While form in IPL is not a direct indicator of Test success, it builds confidence and showcases current skill levels.

Fan reactions have been mixed but largely positive. Many supporters see Padikkal as a fresh, exciting option who could bring balance with his left-hand batting. Others caution that one strong IPL season should not overshadow the need for proven red-ball performances.

The Road Forward

Padikkal’s immediate focus remains on performing for RCB in the remainder of IPL 2026. A strong finish could further strengthen his case. For the Indian team management, the coming domestic season and any bilateral Test series will offer chances to evaluate him more thoroughly.

R Ashwin, known for his insightful analysis and straightforward views, has thrown his weight behind a player he believes has the potential to solve a long-standing puzzle. Whether Padikkal gets that long-term opportunity at No. 3 will depend on his consistency and the selectors’ vision.

As Indian cricket continues its transition, stories like Padikkal’s highlight the blend of talent, hard work, and timely endorsements that shape careers. If given the chance, the Karnataka southpaw could well emerge as the next dependable pillar in India’s Test batting order.