The fact is that he makes valuable contributions down the order makes almost a certainty for every match and he already 2 Test hundreds (both against West Indies) apart from a few fifties. His batting was flawless even in Australia, where the top-order could never really get going.
Same thing happened in the ongoing England tour where he made his comeback in 4th test at Old Trafford where he scored 40 and 46 not out but going wicketless across 14 overs bowled. Though India lost the match but two days after he was ranked as no. 1 all-rounder in test cricket in ICC test player rankings followed by the Protea Veron Philander.
On the very next day of becoming the best all-rounder, he is nominated for the prestigious Arjuna Award for his outstanding contribution in Indian cricket.
A lot will be depended on him in the 5th test from Friday, 15th August in order to level the series at 2-2.