ODI debut beckons? Devdutt Padikkal emerges strong contender for New Zealand Series

Shreyas Iyer’s fitness setback opens the door as Karnataka’s stylish left-hander shines in Vijay Hazare, puts selectors on alert ahead of India squad announcement

Fortune appears to be finally turning in favour of Karnataka’s left-handed batter Devdutt Padikkal, who is now firmly in the race for a possible ODI debut with the upcoming New Zealand one-day series likely to mark a new chapter in his career.

The Indian team selection process for the New Year series against New Zealand has begun, with the squad expected to be announced within the next one or two days. As selectors deliberate, Padikkal has emerged as a strong contender following significant developments within the squad.

India’s vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, who was hoping to make a comeback after suffering a serious injury during the Australia tour, has failed a fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Reports indicate that Iyer is not yet fully fit, dealing a blow to his plans of returning via strong performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. With this, his chances of making the New Zealand ODI squad have taken a hit.

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Iyer’s setback has forced the selection committee to look for alternatives, and Devdutt Padikkal has moved into focus. The Karnataka batter has been in sensational form in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. He began the tournament with a brilliant century against Jharkhand, followed it up with another hundred against Kerala, and continued his run spree with a third century against Puducherry. With three centuries in four matches, Padikkal has turned the tournament into a personal run fest.

Beyond the current tournament, Padikkal’s List A record further strengthens his case. In 37 List A innings, he has smashed 12 centuries and 12 half-centuries, maintaining a staggering average of 84. These numbers place him ahead of several established stars, with even players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma trailing him statistically in this format.

Padikkal’s dominance has not been limited to the 50-over format. He also impressed earlier in the season during the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament, underlining his ability to excel across white-ball cricket. His adaptability allows him to bat both at the top order and in the middle order, making him a flexible option for team management.

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Having already represented India in Tests and T20 Internationals, Padikkal is now eyeing his ODI debut. With Shreyas Iyer ruled out for now and selectors searching for a reliable replacement, the Karnataka batter’s consistent domestic performances have come at the right time.

The final call rests with the selectors, but all signs point towards Devdutt Padikkal being a deserving candidate for India’s ODI squad against New Zealand.