Ravichandran Ashwin had a piece of encouraging advice for debutant Devdutt Padikkal as he handed his the Test cap ahead of the IND vs ENG 5th Test in Dharamshala. The 23-year-old came in for Rajat Patidar in India’s playing XI.
Ravichandran Ashwin, who was also playing his 100th Test, gave Devdutt Padikkal his first cap and provided some excellent advice for the newcomer.
“As a very young kid who came on, burst onto the scene, captivated the imagination of a lot of people through T20 cricket, came up through the ranks as the star-studded boy from his state. He went through something that a youngster will also always find hard to go to” said Ashwin
“Physical trauma was found hanging in balance whether he would play cricket. Life has been very kind, he has fought through it. Maybe that’s what makes you a much harder individual and a harder cricketer to go through life.” he continued.
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“Today, he is standing amongst us, going to make his debut in this wonderful setting along with my 100th Test. But Dev, remember one thing, Karnataka has produced a lot of wonderful international cricketers, the man is standing opposite to you, but mind you, that’s not your burden to carry. Today is your day. Guard it, cherish it, and express yourself.” Ashwin concluded.
Padikkal achieved his first cap after outstanding performances in domestic cricket. During the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season, the left-handed batter scored 556 runs in six innings at an average of 92.66, including three hundreds. The southpaw also scored 105 against England earlier. Padikkal has scored 2227 runs in 31 first-class games, averaging 44.54, with six hundred and 12 half-centuries.
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