Devdutt Padikkal’s domestic dominance sparks selection debate: Is team India overlooking Karnataka’s run machine?

With back-to-back centuries in Vijay Hazare Trophy and staggering List A numbers, the 25-year-old left-hander waits for his ODI breakthrough as selectors weigh options ahead of the New Zealand series.

Karnataka’s stylish left-handed batter Devdutt Padikkal has once again ignited a national selection debate with his outstanding performances in domestic cricket, raising questions over whether the in-form batter is being unfairly overlooked for Team India.

At just 25 years, Padikkal continues to deliver consistent results across white-ball formats. Despite strong domestic returns and prior exposure in Tests and T20Is, the Bengaluru-born cricketer is still waiting for his One Day International (ODI) debut. With the upcoming New Zealand ODI series, hopes are high that selectors may finally reward his form.

Padikkal has been in sublime touch in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he announced his intent early with a magnificent century against Jharkhand. He followed it up with another hundred against Kerala, underlining his hunger and consistency. His run-scoring spree has been a key highlight of the tournament so far.

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The numbers further strengthen his case. In 35 List A innings, Padikkal has amassed 11 centuries and 12 half-centuries, boasting a remarkable average of 84. These statistics place him ahead of several established international stars, including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, in terms of average at the same stage in List A cricket.

His impact has not been limited to the 50-over format alone. Earlier this season, Padikkal impressed in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, proving his adaptability in T20 cricket as well. Across white-ball formats, he has shown the ability to anchor innings and accelerate when required, making him a strong fit for modern limited-overs cricket.

Primarily an opener, Padikkal has also batted successfully in the top three, showcasing flexibility, an asset for team combinations. With senior players expected to move on after the 2027 ODI World Cup, selectors are under pressure to groom reliable top-order options early.

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While Padikkal’s dream of playing the T20 World Cup did not materialise, the Karnataka batter remains focused on making his mark in ODIs. As he enters the new year in peak form, the spotlight is firmly on the selectors to decide whether his domestic excellence finally translates into an India call-up.