Former Indian wicket-keeper Deep Dasgupta has backed Devdutt Padikkal to be India’s number three for the two-match Test series against New Zealand ahead of Sai Sudharsan. In the first innings of the second Test match, Padikkal scored a majestic knock of 117 runs as he once again batted at the top of his game. The southpaw also had the rub of the green on his side as he was dropped on 0 and 1 by Sonal Dinusha and Dhananjaya de Silva.

However, the left-hander was able to make the most of his second chances and delivered for the team. Padikkal scored a total of 328 runs in three innings of the series at an average of 109.33 against Sri Lanka and was awarded Player of the Series.

“Devdutt Padikkal appeared very different from what he was a year, year and a half before. He has worked really hard on his game. His footwork has improved. His basic structure has changed a lot, and that is a huge positive. I think it’s a no-brainer that in the next Test in New Zealand, your first choice has to be Devdutt. Sai would have to wait. He’s got his chances. At this point in time, Devdutt has to be your number three,” he said in a video on his YouTube channel.

On the other hand, Dasgupta added that Manav Suthar’s performances were a huge positive for India. The left-arm orthodox spinner scalped 16 wickets in two Test matches against Sri Lanka at an average of 21.06, including a ten-wicket haul in the opening Test.

“He is very orthodox and has good action. He is a big positive. Good that he can bat, but he can improve a bit. Because he has the ability to bat and has an idea to bowl with the Kookaburra as well. Let’s say he improves his batting a bit more, it opens up the option for you to play two spinners. Maybe he cannot become a batting all-rounder, but can always be a bowler who can contribute with the bat. It is a massive positive,” Deep Dasgupta said.

India will next play a two-match Test series against New Zealand.