'Difficult to keep him out of Indian team': Dinesh Karthik sends big message to selectors on star RCB batter
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) mentor Dinesh Karthik said it could become difficult to keep Devdutt Padikkal out of the India team if he continues batting in the same way in the IPL, after his recent performances for the franchise. Padikkal played a key role in RCB’s win over Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, scoring 50 off 29 balls. Speaking after the match, Karthik pointed to Padikkal’s approach at the start of the innings.
"The first thing that stands out is his determination. On a pitch like this, when runs don't come easily at the start, many batters try to force a big shot and end up giving their wicket away. Devdutt showed great courage to stay patient when the going was tough," Karthik told Star Sports, as cited by news agency PTI.
"Once he got that first boundary, you could see him switch gears. He's playing proper cricketing shots and hitting the ball with distance. If he continues batting like this, it will be difficult to keep him out of the Indian team for long.
He has scored heavily in domestic cricket and we know he's a quality player. " "What's also impressive is the way he's stepping up as a leader in the Karnataka dressing room. Even at 25, he contributes with his ideas and leadership, and that's great to see," Karthik added.
Padikkal’s innings included five fours and two sixes as RCB posted 250 for 3. Tim David also contributed with 70 off 25 balls, hitting eight sixes and three fours, while captain Rajat Patidar made 48 off 19 balls. RCB went on to win by 43 runs, handing CSK their third straight loss.