Karnataka batsman Devdutt Padikkal expressed his happiness on Friday after hitting his third century of the 2017 Ranji Trophy season, saying he was always hopeful of making a good comeback following a tough stretch the previous season. The 23-year-old, who had to make several hospital visits owing to an acute digestive ailment in 2022, struggled to make an impact last season, scoring only 260 runs in seven Ranji Trophy innings.
However, he has recovered well this season, slamming 300 and becoming the state’s leading run-scorer with 500-plus runs.
”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,” he said on the sidelines of the match against Tamil Nadu.
”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 on Friday made an unbeaten 151 off 216 deliveries, laced with 12 fours and six sixes to guide Karnataka to 288 for 5 in a Group C match against Tamil Nadu on day 1. He scored 193 and 103 against Punjab and Goa last month, before slamming 105 for India A against England Lions in Ahmedabad.
He is an opener but has been batting at number three this season.
”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,” Padikkal said.
”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.” ”Mayank has recovered well”
