Padikkal has played two Tests for India so far.
Ashwin’s backing for Padikkal stems from the batter's impressive technical growth and temperament in the longer formats.
Padikkal was heavily prolific during the 2025-26 domestic season, accumulating 725 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and 543 runs in the Ranji Trophy, which included a massive 232-run knock against Uttarakhand.
Moreover, India's search for a long-term No. 3 in Test cricket continues. While players like Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan have been tested, the spot is still up for grabs. Padikkal, on the other hand, has featured in two Tests so far, scoring 90 runs across three innings while batting at No. 3 and No. 4.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin expressed that Padikkal has earned his spot as an incumbent Test player and deserves to be given a "long-term chance".
“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," Ashwin was quoted as saying.
Ashwin specifically highlighted Padikkal's improvement against spin bowling and compared aspects of his game to former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik.
“If you look at his sixes, it is all about the timing. When I see his batting, I feel that there is a little bit of Dinesh Karthik’s imprint. He is very proactive against spinners. He was there with me in RR, and at the time, he used to play spinners on the back foot. Now, he plays the reverse sweep and sweep. He also has the feet usage," he stated.
Ashwin also suggested that performing in the IPL alongside First-Class cricket massively boosts a player's chance for national selection.
“Padikkal was the front runner in the race for the Test cricket team, but Sai Sudharsan surpassed him. Sudharsan is also a good player, but he batted ahead of Padikkal. How did he get that opportunity? Because he was the Orange Cap holder in IPL. Whether it is right or wrong, if you perform in IPL along with First-Class cricket, your selection becomes much easier. But I am happy, Padikkal’s talent and ability is coming out this season," he remarked.