Sai Sudharsan further boosted his claim for India’s No. 3 position in Test cricket with a strong century for India A against Sri Lanka A in the unofficial Test at the Galle International Stadium on Thursday.
The left-handed batter was the standout performer on Day 1, scoring 132 off 175 balls after India A chose to bat first. His innings included 19 boundaries and helped India A cross the 200-run mark within 50 overs on a favourable batting surface. The team finished the day at 333/4.
Sudharsan opened the innings alongside Ayush Pandey and played the anchor role as wickets fell around him. After an 82-run opening partnership, Pandey was dismissed, but Sudharsan continued to hold the innings together and ensured Sri Lanka A remained under pressure.
His knock was marked by controlled batting, as he first focused on building a solid foundation before increasing the scoring rate once settled. The innings highlighted his growing maturity in red-ball cricket, combining defensive stability with attacking shots.
The century comes at a significant stage in his career. Since debuting in Tests in England in 2025, he has played seven matches, scoring 383 runs in 12 innings at an average of 31.92. While those numbers have drawn criticism, the team management has continued to back him.
Sudharsan’s Galle hundred is his ninth first-class century, with his highest score being 213 against Delhi in the Ranji Trophy. He had also recently scored 81 against Afghanistan, while his best Test score remains 87 against West Indies in New Delhi in October last year.
Despite scrutiny over his international record, selectors and team management have consistently shown confidence in him, citing his potential and long-term value to the side.
After his 81 against Afghanistan, Sudharsan had also spoken about the backing he receives, saying it gives him “freedom” and “certainty” to play for the team without pressure.
This latest performance further strengthens his case as India continue to consider him a long-term option for a key batting role in the Test setup.
