Devdutt Padikkal received the Player of the Series award following India’s two-Test tour of Sri Lanka, but the accolade came with conflicted emotions. The left-handed batter accumulated 328 runs across the series, including two centuries, emerging as India’s standout performer. However, his individual achievement was tempered by the fact that the visiting team could not secure a clean sweep, settling for a 1-0 series victory after winning only the opening Test.
The second Test at the SSC Ground ended in a draw, with Sri Lanka’s Sonal Dinusha scoring an unbeaten 133 to help the hosts avoid defeat. Reflecting on the outcome, Padikkal acknowledged that his award would have held greater significance had India completed a whitewash. He highlighted the challenging nature of the pitches encountered during the tour, noting that batters gradually adapted to the slow, turning surfaces as the series progressed.
Beyond discussing the match conditions, Padikkal emphasized the importance of mental preparation and clear tactical planning when batting on difficult pitches. He credited his teammates’ approach and execution for their performances throughout the series. The 24-year-old also reflected on his return to India’s Test squad, stressing that he prioritizes seizing opportunities rather than dwelling on previous setbacks.
Padikkal concluded by expressing his flexibility regarding batting position, stating that his sole focus remains contributing to team victories through consistent run-scoring. He praised the hunger and commitment within India’s relatively young squad, expressing optimism about the group’s continued development in international cricket.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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