In the 2024 Ranji Trophy clash between Karnataka and Punjab, Devdutt Padikkal emerged as the unequivocal standout performer. The 23-year-old batting sensation showcased his exceptional prowess by smashing his third century in First-Class cricket. Padikkal seamlessly carried forward his stellar form from the Vijay Hazare Trophy into the Ranji Trophy. It’s not just about the centuries; it’s about a young player making a mark that resonates beyond individual innings.
Padikkal scored a remarkable 193 runs, leaving the opposition bowlers hapless. His innings included a staggering 24 boundaries and four sixes, a testament to his ability to dominate the game with both grace and power. Padikkal read the game impeccably. Padikkal’s innings took a decisive turn when he formed a vital 234-run partnership with the seasoned Manish Pandey. This partnership not only stabilized Karnataka’s innings but also propelled their total beyond the formidable 340-run mark.
Padikkal’s dismissal, caught by Baltej Singh off the bowling of Prerit Dutta, marked the end of a spectacular innings. However, in reaching this milestone, Padikkal surpassed the 1,500-run mark in First-Class cricket. His overall tally of 1,673 runs in just 26 matches, maintaining an average above 36, solidifies his status as a formidable force in the game.
The young prodigy’s journey spans three centuries, accompanied by an impressive tally of 11 fifties in the First-Class format. Since his debut in 2018, Padikkal has not just been a rising star but a consistent performer, establishing himself as a key player in Karnataka’s top order.
Fans Heap Praise On Devdutt Padikkal As He Scores 193 Runs In Ranji Trophy Opener
