India’s chase got off to a rocky start with opener Devdutt Padikkal failing to get off the mark, falling for a duck early in the innings in the IND vs AUS first Test in Perth on Friday. Josh Hazlewood, making his return to the attack had Padikkal in trouble from the get-go. The ball was pitched just outside off stump, and Padikkal, looking to flick, missed it entirely, resulting in a slight outside edge. The catch was comfortably taken by wicketkeeper Alex Carey, sending Padikkal back to the dressing room without troubling the scorers. The Indian batter goes for a duck after playing 23 balls.
Padikkal’s early departure shakes India
Padikkal’s departure for 0 runs off 23 balls left India at 14/2, putting the team under pressure. His dismissal, which came on a delivery that moved slightly, showed how tricky the conditions are. The batter failed to get into a rhythm and paid the price.
Not a good comeback for Padikkal
Devdutt Padikkal made his Test debut for India in 2024, playing against England at Dharamsala in March. After impressing in domestic cricket and the IPL, Padikkal was given the chance to represent India in the longer format. His debut match was an important step in his career, to prove himself, now he was given a chance again in the Indian team after Shubman Gill went injured. Although he didn’t have the best start in his first Test in Australia. Padikkal’s inclusion in the team showed the trust the selectors had in his potential.
Pressure shifts to Virat Kohli
With Padikkal’s early exit, India now relies heavily on the experienced Virat Kohli to turn the innings around. The focus is now on Kohli to weather the storm and steady the ship for India.
