3 players India should build their next Test cycle around

1. Devdutt Padikkal

India's search for a reliable batter and permanent fixture at number 3 has been a long one, which became an issue that resurfaced after captain Shubman Gill moved down to number 4. Sai Sudharsan, who was the option in trial for the last year, picked up an untimely injury, which brought Devdutt Padikkal onto the scene. Padikkal took his chance with both arms, now having recorded his second century of the tour against Sri Lanka in Colombo.

Padikkal has looked in complete control against the spinners in the subcontinent, getting forward and backwards with ease, while also using his feet to clear down the ground. He has shown the temperament to bat long and score big in the domestic game, which was on display during his 167 in Galle. He has also shown the ability to score against seam bowling, which is an encouraging sign for the future of Indian cricket.