Devdutt Padikkal all but seals India ODI squad spot for New Zealand series after domestic heroics

Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal continued his outstanding form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, smashing his fourth century in just five matches. With India yet to announce the squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, Padikkal’s red-hot form could force selectors to consider his name for the series.

India’s selectors are expected to announce the squad for the ODI series against New Zealand in the next couple of days. Padikkal has moved into contention due to recent changes within the setup. Shreyas Iyer, who failed a fitness test at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, is still recovering from an injury.

Devdutt Padikkal Smashes Fourth Century in Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025

Tripura won the toss and chose to field in the Group A match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on January 3. Devdutt Padikkal opened the innings alongside Mayank Agarwal. However, the batting side lost both Agarwal and Karun Nair inside the first three overs, collapsing to 6 for 2.

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Padikkal then steadied the innings with a crucial 136-run partnership in 151 balls. He later added another 65 runs in 60 balls with KL Rahul, who scored a quick 35 off 28 deliveries. Smaran also chipped in with 60 runs off 82 balls.

Padikkal brought up his century with a single in the 38th over, completing a composed knock after early setbacks and guiding the innings back on track.

Devdutt Padikkal’s Impressive Performances in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Devdutt Padikkal has enjoyed a remarkable run in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, producing big scores almost every time he has walked out to bat for Karnataka.

He began the tournament in style with a superb 147 off 118 balls against Jharkhand, playing a key role in a massive chase. In the very next match, he scored 124 off 137 balls against Kerala.

Padikkal then had a rare low score against Tamil Nadu, where he managed just 22 runs, but the setback did not last long. He bounced back with another century, scoring 113 off 116 balls against Puducherry.

Padikkal’s consistency and ability to score centuries make him one of the brightest future prospects for India in the 50-over format. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, would find it hard to ignore the left-handed batter for upcoming assignments.

Devdutt Padikkal’s Strong Case for ODI Selection

Devdutt Padikkal has an outstanding record in List A cricket. In 37 innings, he has scored 13 centuries and 12 half-centuries, while averaging over 80. These numbers place him ahead of many senior Indian batters in the 50-over format.

Padikkal is yet to make his ODI debut, but he has already represented India in Tests and T20 Internationals. Earlier this season, he also impressed in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

The left-hander can bat both at the top of the order and in the middle order, giving team management more flexibility. His ability to adapt across formats makes him a strong option.

With Shreyas Iyer currently unavailable, selectors are searching for a reliable replacement. Padikkal’s strong domestic performances have come at the right time, with the final call to be made for the series against New Zealand.

Also read: Shubman Gill’s 2026 begins HORRIBLY as fresh illness delays Vijay Hazare Trophy comeback