[Watch] Devdutt Padikkal Departs To Bashir's Sharp Turner After Gritty Fifty On Debut
Devdutt Padikkal falls after scoring a half century in debut Test in Dharamsala (X.com)
England spinner Shoaib Bashir cleaned up debutant Devdutt Padikkal to have the last laugh after the Indian batter smoked a six of his over to bring up maiden Test half century in Dharamsala.
India added nearly 100 runs to the overnight tally courtesy of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill's respective tons. However, right after lunch, the set batters departed against the run of play.
The next batters in line, Sarfaraz Khan and Devdutt Padikkal showcased immense maturity and game awareness to stitch up a 97-run partnership and avoid a humiliating collapse.
But again, after the tea break, Sarfaraz lost his concentration and departed Shoaib Bashir's off break.
Meanwhile, an unfazed Devdutt Padikkal on the other end kept the scoreboard ticking. In the rush of blood, the debutant hammered Bashir for a six down the ground to bring up his maiden Test fifty in cinematic style.
However, at last, Bashir had the last laugh. Just after India tallied 400 runs on the board, Shoaib Bashir deceived Padikkal with his sharp turn. He released the ball a little higher by making good use of his height and bowled short.
Watch the video here -
With a hint of extra bounce, the ball turned sharply after hitting the deck and beat Padikkal's outside edge to disturb the stumps. The debutant was deceived by the turn and caught in an awkward position. He could neither move forward nor back, which eventually resulted in his dismissal.
Devdutt Padikkal walked out with sheer disappointment on his face. With the kind of start he attained, he had an opportunity to bat deep and produce something extraordinary.
Regardless, India remain in the driver's seat, irrespective of the lower order collapse. With over 200 runs lead at their helm, the hosts are currently favorites to win the Dharamsala Test and conclude the successful series on a high.