Devdutt Padikkal opened up on a difficult period which he had to endure due to some health issues.
The batter made an excellent Test debut for India in the ongoing Test match against England in Dharamshala.
Padikkal replaced Rajat Patidar in the side and scored an eye-catching 65 off 103 balls, comprised of 10 fours and a six. He was the 5th debutant in the series for India and another one who has made a fantastic start to his Test career.
After the end of the 2nd day’s play, Padikkal opened up on his struggles with health in the last couple of years, as he had intestinal issues. The player said that those times were difficult for him but he always wanted to capitalize on any opportunity.
“It was challenging the last couple of years, because of my health issues which are well-documented, so when you are sitting at home and not doing anything, it surely wasn’t a pleasant feeling, but I wanted to make the most of the opportunity whenever it comes,” Padikkal said after the day’s play on Friday (March 8).
The 23-year-old has already played 2 T20Is for India but said getting the Test cap was special. He also admitted that there was a bit nervous energy, but he tried to channel that in a positive way.
“These opportunities are rare to come and I was ready and prepared for this challenge. I was a bit nervous going in, but I wanted to make sure that I wanted to use that energy in a positive way. It was a bit challenging at the beginning, but I wanted to put my head down and build a partnership with Sarfaraz. It’s a special feeling (making Test debut) no matter what the circumstances, to live in that dream is something special,” he added.
India are currently flying in the Dharamshala Test. Rohit Sharma and his troops are sitting on a lead of 255 runs with two wickets still in hand. Given the way this series has progressed, the Indian team will be aiming to wrap things up soon.