Devdutt Padikkal has been called into India’s Test squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and is set to replace the injured Shubman Gill for the opening Test in Perth. The 24-year-old left-handed batter earned this opportunity after Gill fractured his thumb during a practice session at the WACA, forcing the Indian team to make a quick adjustment.
The BCCI confirmed Padikkal’s inclusion through a video announcement on their social media platforms. This call-up marks a significant moment for Padikkal, who has had a taste of international cricket before. He made his Test debut earlier this year against England, scoring a composed 65 off 103 balls.
Despite that promising start, Padikkal was overlooked for subsequent series against Bangladesh and New Zealand. The upcoming series against Australia now offers him a golden chance to cement his place in India’s Test lineup.
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Speaking about his inclusion, Padikkal shared his excitement and the intensity of training sessions with the Indian team. “It feels pretty surreal, to be honest. The practice sessions have been intense, and you can feel everyone gearing up for the series. Training with the Indian team always feels as significant as playing the match itself. I hope to bring that same energy to the game,” he said in a BCCI video.
Devdutt Padikkal has joined the #TeamIndia squad.🙌
The left-handed batter shares his experience and excitement of training with the group ahead of the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy👌👌#AUSvIND | @devdpd07 pic.twitter.com/KxFrbIPMwS
— BCCI (@BCCI) November 21, 2024
While his recent form has been inconsistent, Padikkal impressed during an India A tour with a notable 88-run knock in an unofficial Test against Australia A in Mackay. Reflecting on his selection, he expressed both gratitude and determination.
“During the A-tour, I hoped my performances could earn me this chance. I’m glad to be here and aim to make the most of it,” Devdutt Padikkal added.
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With Rohit Sharma on paternity leave, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal are expected to open for India, leaving Padikkal as a strong contender for the No. 3 spot in Shubman Gill’s absence. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy could be a defining chapter in Padikkal’s burgeoning career, as he looks to prove his mettle against a formidable Australian side.
