Image Source: BCCI
[Saba Sports News] In a splendid display of cricket, Devdutt Padikkal marked his Test debut for India in the series’ final match against England at the scenic HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. His debut was enriched with wisdom from the experienced Ravichandran Ashwin, who highlighted the value of treasuring the Test cap.
Padikkal was called to fill in for the injured Rajat Patidar, as announced by India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, during the toss. Patidar, having debuted in Vizag, couldn’t build on his start due to his injury, managing a total of 63 runs over six innings.
Padikkal’s ascent to Test cricket was fraught with hurdles. Initially drafted as a substitute in the Rajkot Test after KL Rahul’s injury, he faced numerous challenges to reach this point. In a heartfelt cap presentation ceremony, Ashwin recounted Padikkal’s journey, acknowledging his swift rise through T20 cricket and the tough phases he endured, including significant physical setbacks that cast doubt on his cricketing future.
Ashwin’s words underscored Padikkal’s resilience and determination through difficult times.
In the match itself, India took control on the first day, restricting England to 218 runs, with Kuldeep Yadav and Ashwin leading the bowling success. Despite Zak Crawley’s resilient 77, England’s lineup faltered, with prominent batsmen like Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow unable to capitalize on their starts.
With India poised to secure a 4-1 series win after three consecutive victories, England is under pressure to clinch a win in Dharamsala, aiming to narrow the series gap to 3-2.