India A batter Devdutt Padikkal missed a remarkable double century by just one run after being given out for 199 on the third day of the first unofficial Test against New Zealand A at Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln. The dismissal sparked controversy, with the left-handed batter appearing visibly unhappy with the umpire’s decision.
According to NDTV Sports, Padikkal was caught behind by wicketkeeper Mitchell Hay off the bowling of Zak Gibson. However, the batter appeared to believe there was a significant gap between his bat and the ball, questioning the decision as he walked back to the pavilion.
The incident attracted attention on social media, where a video of the dismissal circulated. Some viewers also highlighted the absence of the Decision Review System (DRS) in the unofficial Test, leaving Padikkal unable to challenge the umpire’s call through that mechanism.
Padikkal leads India A’s fightback
Padikkal’s innings was crucial for India A after the visitors were bowled out for just 113 in their first innings. New Zealand A responded with 317, securing a substantial first-innings lead of 204 runs.
Resuming Day 3 with India A at 106 for two in their second innings, Padikkal continued his impressive batting alongside Sai Sudharsan. The pair built a vital 215-run partnership, with Sudharsan contributing 91 runs.
After Sudharsan’s dismissal, Padikkal continued to anchor the innings and added another important 142-run stand with Yash Rathod, who scored 66.
His 199-run knock helped India A recover from their early collapse and put the visitors in a much stronger position in the match.
Strong form ahead of the Test series
Padikkal’s latest performance adds to his impressive run of form in red-ball cricket. He has delivered several substantial innings in recent matches, strengthening his case for consideration ahead of India’s upcoming two-Test series against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on November 19.
In the meantime, his near-double century against New Zealand A will be remembered both for the quality of his batting and the controversial circumstances of his dismissal.
For Padikkal, the disappointment of missing the 200-run milestone by the narrowest possible margin was compounded by his apparent disagreement with the umpire’s decision. For India A, however, his innings proved invaluable in their fightback after a difficult first innings.
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