Lucknow: On a surface that promised runs and demanded discipline, Karnataka skipper Devdutt Padikkal delivered both in spades. The elegant left-hander, who has so far appeared in just two Tests, both in 2024, reminded everyone why he continues to be talked about as India’s third long-term option.
Despite consistent results at the national level, Padikkal has found himself on the sidelines of the national team. But with Indian batsmen struggling in local Tests in recent months, his monumental 232 in the Ranji Trophy semi-final against Uttarakhand couldn’t have been better timed. It was his highest first-class score, eclipsing his previous best of 193 against Punjab in 2024.
Batting with his trademark patience, Padikkal first wore down the attack before unleashing his strokes with authority. “It’s always great to score a double hundred. It’s not often you get those opportunities so I’m happy to have been able to do it,” he said.
The knock also helped bury the ghost of his 193 against Punjab. “I was disappointed that day. When I got close to two hundred here, I wanted to make sure I didn’t miss out again,” he said.
In three left-handers that dominated the semi-finals, Padikkal pushed aside the angle. “I don’t think it’s about being left-handed. Maybe facing two left-arm spinners helped, but it’s mostly a coincidence. They all batted well. KL and Karun also scored runs.”
Padikkal, appointed captain of Karnataka mid-season, has accepted the added responsibility without letting it affect his batting. “Of course, it feels different, but I am trying not to let captaincy affect the way I play. Having experienced players like KL Rahul and Karun Nair has been a blessing.”
With three days left to go, talks on the declaration have been put on hold. “When you get good batting conditions after playing on difficult Ranji wickets, you have to stay hungry and cash in. You have to keep reminding yourself that these opportunities don’t come that often. We want to put a big total on the board,” he said.
When asked about the pitch, he said, “It is a great wicket. Lucknow in general has produced some good wickets for multi-day cricket. We knew it would be a good wicket for playing five-day cricket. We are happy that so far it has played well. We hope to continue batting well and put up a big total on the board.”