Devdutt Padikkal scored a hundred in the Ranji Trophy semis. Courtesy: PTI

India Today Sports Desk

New Delhi,UPDATED: Feb 15, 2026 20:01 IST

Written By: Sabyasachi Chowdhury

Devdutt Padikkal put his hand up for India’s No.3 Test spot with a scintillating century in the Ranji Trophy semi-final against Uttarakhand in Lucknow. Coming in at No.3 on Day 1, Padikkal reached his fifty off 65 balls and went on to remain unbeaten on 148 from 236 deliveries, striking 16 fours and 2 sixes. He combined with KL Rahul to forge a massive 298-run partnership for the second wicket, putting Karnataka in complete control.

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Padikkal, traditionally an opener, has increasingly batted at No.3 for Karnataka in first-class cricket, and his ability to build long innings has made him a strong contender for India’s Test middle order. With over 3,000 first-class runs at an average above 40 and nine centuries, his domestic record is impressive.

Internationally, he has featured in two Tests for India, scoring 90 runs in three innings, including a debut high of 65 against England at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala in 2024. At No.3 for India, he has scored 25 runs from two innings at an average of 12.50.

RAHUL ALSO SHINES IN LUCKNOW

Rahul also played a commanding innings for Karnataka in the semis, scoring 141 runs off 211 balls. He reached his fifty off 86 deliveries and brought up his century off 150 balls, showcasing patience and control. Rahul struck 11 fours and 5 sixes while anchoring the innings alongside Padikkal. He was eventually caught and bowled by right-arm pacer Aditya Rawat.

Amid the brilliant innings from Padikkal and Rahul, Karun Nair remained unbeaten on 37 as Karnataka closed Day 1 at 355 for two. Following Mayank Agarwal’s early dismissal by Aditya Rawat, Padikkal and Rahul took control, combining composure and fluency to keep Uttarakhand’s bowlers under pressure and ensure Karnataka’s commanding position.

Brief Scores (Stumps - Day 1)

Karnataka: 355/2 in 90 overs. Devdutt Padikkal (148*), KL Rahul (141); Aditya Rawat (2/73)

- Ends

Published By:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published On:

Feb 15, 2026