Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal was finally rewarded for his superlative form in First-Class cricket, as the selectors included him in the India squad for the 3rd Test against England. Though Padikkal’s call-up came as a result of KL Rahul lacking 100% match fitness, the left-handed batter is elated to have finally been rewarded for his hard work. When asked about the call-up, the batter had no hesitation in admitting that the feeling was yet to sink in. Padikkla, however, was happy to have seen his tough run in the last few years, with regards to national selection, ending.
“The call-up is yet to sink in. The Test team is always a dream, and this has come after a tough few years. I feel very proud that all the hard work I’ve put in has paid off. Can’t thank my family and well-wishers enough for sticking by me,” said Padikkal in a chat with the Times of India.
“Returning from the illness was very tough. The biggest challenge was to get physically fit. I had lost 10 kilos and I had to eat right and concentrate on regaining muscle and strength. At this stage of my career every match counts and here I was missing a lot of games,” Padikkal added.
Padikkal made his India debut in the T20I format against Sri Lanka in 2021 but he only played a couple of games. Since then, the player hasn’t featured in international cricket. Subsequently, he struggled in the 2022-23 Ranji Trophy campaign but has bounced back this year.
Illness and injury issues played a large part in his underwhelming shows the last couple of years but the batter is past that.
“It was disturbing because there was a lot of competition. While it was challenging, I had to stay focused on doing well when I returned. I worked really hard. I began the season with the determination of winning as many matches as possible for Karnataka,” he asserted.
Though Padikkal usually bats high up in the order, he is open to playing anywhere the team demands.
“I enjoy whatever opportunities I get. While each batting position comes with its challenges, I’m up for it because that’s going to help me grow as a cricketer. It’s part of my learning process,” said Padikkal.
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