Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal was lastly rewarded for his superlative kind in First-Class cricket, because the selectors included him within the India squad for the third Test towards England. Though Padikkal’s call-up got here because of KL Rahul missing 100% match health, the left-handed batter is elated to have lastly been rewarded for his laborious work. When requested in regards to the call-up, the batter had no hesitation in admitting that the sensation was but to sink in. Padikkla, nevertheless, was glad to have seen his robust run in the previous few years, with reference to nationwide choice, ending.

“The call-up is yet to sink in. The Test team is always a dream, and this has come after a tough few years. I feel very proud that all the hard work I’ve put in has paid off. Can’t thank my family and well-wishers enough for sticking by me,” stated Padikkal in a chat with the Times of India.

“Returning from the illness was very tough. The biggest challenge was to get physically fit. I had lost 10 kilos and I had to eat right and concentrate on regaining muscle and strength. At this stage of my career every match counts and here I was missing a lot of games,” Padikkal added.

Padikkal made his India debut within the T20I format towards Sri Lanka in 2021 however he solely performed a few video games. Since then, the participant hasn’t featured in worldwide cricket. Subsequently, he struggled within the 2022-23 Ranji Trophy marketing campaign however has bounced again this yr.

Illness and damage points performed a big half in his underwhelming reveals the final couple of years however the batter is previous that.

“It was disturbing because there was a lot of competition. While it was challenging, I had to stay focused on doing well when I returned. I worked really hard. I began the season with the determination of winning as many matches as possible for Karnataka,” he asserted.

Though Padikkal often bats excessive up within the order, he’s open to taking part in wherever the staff calls for.

“I enjoy whatever opportunities I get. While each batting position comes with its challenges, I’m up for it because that’s going to help me grow as a cricketer. It’s part of my learning process,” stated Padikkal.