Former Indian batter Kris Srikkanth has shared his views on Devdutt Padikkal’s daddy century in the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. Notably, Padikkal was slotted at No.3 in Sai Sudharsan’s place for the two-match series.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth has reckoned that Sudharsan’s spot is going to be in trouble after Padikkal’s 167-run knock off 230 balls with 15 fours and a six. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of staying fit.
“Now Sai Sudarshan is going to be in trouble. While he has done well at No.3, Padikkal has cemented that spot now. This is where Sai could ill afford to miss a game, citing injury. I won’t accept the excuses of too much cricket being played. You have to keep yourself fit. Now Padikkal can’t be dropped, and Sai will suffer because of this injury absence. For Sai to come back, it’s going to be that much more difficult,” Kris Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.
“What a comeback by Padikkal. His batting has such elegance. He hasn’t let go of his incredible form from domestic cricket to the IPL. His drives and cuts are superb, full of fluency. It also shows that those who shine at the domestic level are doing well for India as well. Now performances in the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy will be taken up seriously. Just doing well in the IPL to play for India won’t happen,” he added.
Additionally, the former Indian chairman of selectors Srikkanth has heaped praise on Virat Kohli for staying fit despite playing across three formats of the game. He went on to add that he doesn’t want to buy the excuse that playing all formats leads to injuries.
“I don’t buy the excuse that playing all formats leads to injuries. Virat Kohli played all formats and never struggled for fitness. He is just an example. There are many who’ve played all three formats and never had problems. It’s how you take care of your body and make yourself mentally strong. That’s the price you pay for all the popularity you gain through the sport,” he concluded.
