Why Devdutt Padikkal such an important cricketer?

The 23-year-old, who was recently traded to IPL side Lucknow Super Giants from Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2024, has had his ups and downs in his brief career.  The Karnataka batter hogged the limelight in 2020 as a 20-year-old after a breakout domestic season where he was the top run-getter in both white-ball tournaments.

He then went on to win the emerging-player award in his debut IPL season, racking up 473 runs. However an acute intestinal issue in 2022 thwarted his progress and he had to endure a torrid run of form in the past two years.

However, he been in blistering form this season. The batter has already scored three trophies in the Ranji Trophy this season. His latest came against a formidable Tamil Nadu side. His hardwork has not gone to waste, and that is evident from his maiden India call up.