IND vs ENG 2024: Guard it, cherish it and express yourself – Ravichandran Ashwin message to debutant Devdutt Padikkal

India’s veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared motivational words with Devdutt Padikkal, who is making his Test debut against England at Dharamsala. Padikkal became the 314th Test cricketer for India and received his maiden Test cap from Ravichandran Ashwin, who is playing his 100th game.

Padikkal replaced Rajat Patidar, who suffered left ankle injury on the eve of the Test, in the final XI. Padikkal was named in the Test squad after KL Rahul was ruled out of the third match against England at Rajkot.

The 23-year-old has scored 2227 runs in 31 first-class matches at an average of 44.54. The left-hander has been in terrific form in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, scoring 556 runs in four matches at an impressive average of 92.66 and thus he was rewarded by the selectors for his consistent performances.

Padikkal has played two T20Is for India in which he has scored 38 runs and he will look to grab his chance if he gets a chance in the playing XI.

“As a young kid, came on and burst onto the scene, captivated the imagination of a lot of people through T20 cricket. Came up through the ranks as the star-studded boy from his state. He went through something that youngsters will always find it hard to go through. Physical trauma, literally was found hanging in the balance, whether he would play cricket,” said Ashwin on BCCI.TV.

“Life has been very kind, he has fought through it maybe that’s what makes you a much more harder individual. But Dev, remember one thing that Karnataka has produced a lot of wonderful international cricketers, the man is standing right opposite to you (Rahul Dravid), but that’s not your burden to bear. Today is your day. Guard it, cherish it and express yourself,” Ashwin added.

Meanwhile, Ashwin had also observed Devdutt Padikkal from close quarters while playing for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. Padikkal will represent Lucknow Super Giants in the forthcoming tournament.

On the other hand, India were able to skittle England for 218 with Ashwin and Kuldeep taking four and five wickets respectively.