The talented Karnataka batter, Devdutt Padikkal, expressed his joy following his third century in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024. Padikkal said that he always had the confidence to make a strong comeback after a challenging Ranji season last year.
In 2022, the 23-year-old faced setbacks, frequently visiting hospitals due to an acute intestinal issue. Consequently, his performance suffered, as he managed just 260 runs across seven Ranji Trophy innings last year.
However, this season has seen a remarkable turnaround, as Padikkal's confidence and determination have propelled him to score three centuries in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024. He has staged an impressive recovery this season, as he is the highest run-scorer for Karnataka with over 500 runs.
Devdutt Padikkal said on the sidelines of Karnataka’s match against Tamil Nadu: “I wasn’t doing too well in last couple of years, resulting in a dip in my performance. But, I was always confident about getting back to scoring runs, and also in terms of my health and fitness. So, happy about it.”
The star batter continued, “It’s always great to score runs. We understand that when you are not scoring runs, it’s not a great place to be.”
Padikkal is an opener, but he has been batting at number three for Karnataka in the ongoing season. Speaking about the same, he said: “It’s (batting position) just the way our team was set up. I don’t mind batting at number three or opening – doesn’t make a huge difference. So, I’m just making sure that wherever I bat, I contribute to the side.”
He signed off by saying, “It’s (attacking approach) natural. As you play more and more cricket and gain experience at this level, you will naturally be able to play more shots and be confident about your areas. I’m still young and learning, and over the years, I have tried to develop shots and evolve as a cricketer.”
(With PTI Inputs)
