Devdutt Padikkal: ‘Limited Opportunities’ Mean Nothing Can Be Taken For Granted

Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal knows that opportunities to establish himself in India’s Test side are limited, and his impressive run in Sri Lanka has not changed his approach. After scoring 328 runs in three innings, including back-to-back hundreds, the left-hander says he is determined to keep performing rather than take his place for granted.

Padikkal received his opportunity on the recent Sri Lanka tour after regular No. 3 Sai Sudharsan was ruled out with a foot injury. The 26-year-old grabbed the chance with both hands, making a strong case for a permanent place in the Test team.

“You get limited opportunities these days, and it’s not very easy to cement a place in a side. Nothing is taken for granted,” Padikkal told JioStar.

The batter said his immediate focus is to keep scoring runs and contributing to India’s victories. He also acknowledged the demanding nature of Test cricket, stressing that sustained performances are essential.

Padikkal revealed that the team management had informed him at the beginning of the Sri Lanka series that he would bat at No. 3 in both Tests. That clarity helped him prepare mentally and make the most of his opportunity.

He had last represented India in Perth in November 2024, meaning the Sri Lanka series marked an important return to the Test set-up. Padikkal said he had spent the intervening period continuing to work on his game and ensuring he would be ready whenever another opportunity arrived.

The Bengaluru-born batter also recalled his conversations with former India head coach and legendary No. 3 batter Rahul Dravid, under whom he made his Test debut against England in early 2024. Dravid’s advice centred on preparation, clarity of thought and understanding how to occupy the crease for long periods.

Padikkal is also aware of the enormous legacy attached to India’s No. 3 position. Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara established themselves as pillars of the batting order in the role, meaning comparisons are inevitable.

However, Padikkal said he intends to concentrate on his own game rather than the pressure surrounding the position. Consistent performances and a contribution to team wins, he believes, will ultimately determine his place in India’s Test XI.