‘It’s always great to score runs’ – Devdutt Padikkal elated on scoring third century in Ranji Trophy 2024
Devdutt Padikkal (Source: X)
Following a poor season last year, Karnataka batsman Devdutt Padikkal expressed his happiness on Friday after smashing his third century of the current Ranji Trophy season. He also stated that he was always confident in his ability to bounce back. He is eager to score more runs and is pleased with how he has performed this season. Padikkal scored an unbeaten 151 off 216 deliveries, along with 12 fours and six sixes.
Padikkal said, “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. It’s always great to score runs. We understand that when you are not scoring runs, it’s not a great place to be.”
The 23-year-old did not have much of an influence on the Ranji Trophy last season, scoring just 260 runs in seven innings. In 2022, he had to make many medical appointments because of an acute intestinal issue. He has, however, bounced back very well this season, hitting three hundred runs and finishing the season as the state’s top run scorer with over 500 runs.
‘I don’t mind batting at number three or opening’ – Devdutt Padikkal feels comfortable to bat at any position
On the first day of the Group C match against Tamil Nadu, Padikkal led Karnataka to 288 for 5 on Friday with an unbeaten 151 off 216 deliveries that included 12 fours and 6 sixes. Last month, he amassed 193 and 103 against Punjab and Goa before smashing 105 for India A against the England Lions in Ahmedabad. Moreover, Padikkal admitted that he’s comfortable playing at number three or opening and he doesn’t have a particular preference.
Padikkal 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. 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.”
