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Padikkal on India snub: 'Not expecting that call'
12 Jan
Summary
- Devdutt Padikkal wasn't surprised by omission from India's ODI squad.
- He scored 721 runs in eight Vijay Hazare Trophy matches.
- Padikkal credits Dinesh Karthik for batting improvements.
Devdutt Padikkal has shared his perspective on his exclusion from India's ongoing ODI series against New Zealand. The young batsman, who dominated the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 with 721 runs in eight games, admitted he wasn't surprised by the decision. He understood that a wicketkeeper's replacement would likely be another wicketkeeper, given Rishabh Pant's injury.
Padikkal's remarkable form, averaging 103.00 with a strike rate over 100, has been significantly aided by insights from RCB coach Dinesh Karthik. He highlighted Karthik's contribution to his tactical understanding of opposition strategies, which has been crucial for his batting. Padikkal also reflected on his positive IPL 2025 season and his experience batting with Virat Kohli.
Looking ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup, Padikkal remains focused on representing India, whether alongside legends like Rohit Sharma and Kohli or forging his own path. Having represented India in Tests and T20Is, he aims to debut in ODIs and contribute to the country's victories, prioritizing national service over playing with specific teammates.
