Manjrekar chooses between Devdutt Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan for the no. 3 spot, praising one as a "formidable player."

In a remarkable display of skill, Devdutt Padikkal shone on the opening day of India's first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, solidifying his claim for a permanent position at No. 3 in the batting order. Stepping in for the injured Sai Sudharsan, Padikkal delivered an impressive unbeaten 131 runs, guiding India to a total of 288 for 2 after 73 overs, despite interruptions from rain.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar lauded Padikkal's performance, emphasizing his adeptness against spin bowling. Manjrekar took to social media platform X to commend Padikkal's technique, stating, “Devdutt Padikkal is godsent for India against spinners. Excellent technique, both in defense and attack.” During a subsequent analysis on Sony Sports, he elaborated on Padikkal's strengths, highlighting his ability to blend defensive play with effective strike rotation and aggressive shots against spin.

“Padikkal was a significant change for India. His comfort against spin is evident; he excels in defense, can pick singles and twos when the field is spread, and plays attacking shots, even off the back foot on slow, turning pitches,” Manjrekar noted, underscoring the batter's versatility and tactical acumen.

Throughout his innings, Padikkal showcased his mastery over Sri Lanka's spinners, frequently utilizing the depth of the crease to counter their deliveries. A highlight of his innings was a powerful six off Prabath Jayasuriya, where he charged down the pitch and lofted the ball over long-on. Manjrekar particularly admired Padikkal's ability to score off the back foot on a challenging pitch, stating, “To hit shots off the back foot with a straight bat on slow, turning surfaces is remarkable. The best way to handle spin is to play most of the bowling from the back foot.”

Manjrekar concluded that Padikkal's prowess against spin makes him an ideal candidate for the No. 3 position, even with Sudharsan's potential return. “With the kind of spin talent he possesses, Padikkal at No. 3 is a formidable option for India,” he asserted.

Padikkal's stellar performance not only marked a significant milestone in his career but also made him the first Indian to score a Test century on Independence Day, joining the ranks of Virat Kohli as only the second Indian cricketer to achieve an international century on August 15.