Devdutt Padikkal's Controversial Dismissal Denies Double Century in Unofficial Test

In a dramatic turn of events, Indian batter Devdutt Padikkal fell just short of a double century during an unofficial Test against New Zealand A. His dismissal sparked controversy due to a contentious caught-behind decision, leaving fans divided over the umpire's call and the absence of DRS. Despite the disappointment, Padikkal's performance solidifies his position as a key player for the upcoming Test series. Read on for a detailed account of the match and fan reactions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 26, 2026, 13:16 IST

Padikkal Falls Just Short of Milestone

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Indian cricketer Devdutt Padikkal narrowly missed achieving a double century during India A's first unofficial Test against New Zealand A at Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln on October 26.

Starting their second innings with a score of 106/2, Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan were at the crease with scores of 56 and 39, respectively, trailing by 98 runs. By the end of Day 3, India A had established a strong position at 488/8 in 119 overs, leading by 284 runs, with Washington Sundar and Akash Deep at the crease.

Padikkal emerged as the standout performer, scoring 199 runs off 248 balls, featuring 24 fours and 3 sixes. He built a significant 215-run partnership with Sudharsan, who contributed 91 runs, and another vital 142-run partnership with Yash Rathod, who scored 66 runs off 72 balls.

Controversial Dismissal at 199

Padikkal's innings ended in controversy late on Day 3 due to a contentious caught-behind decision. He reached the 100-run mark in 128 balls and was just one run away from his double century when disaster struck.

Facing New Zealand A's Zak Gibson, Padikkal attempted a glance at a delivery that seemed to brush his pad before being caught by keeper Mitchell Hay. The appeal for a catch was upheld by the on-field umpire, leaving Padikkal visibly shocked and gesturing towards the gap between his bat and the ball.

Key Points:

Padikkal was dismissed for 199 runs, just one run shy of a double century.

The umpire's decision was based on a suspected edge off the bat.

Padikkal's reaction indicated disbelief as he walked off the field.

Fans React to the Decision

The dismissal ignited a heated debate among fans on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). Many expressed their disappointment over Padikkal's missed opportunity for a double century and questioned the umpire's judgment, especially in the absence of the Decision Review System (DRS).

Fans shared their thoughts, with some blaming Padikkal for walking away before the decision was made, while others criticized the lack of a third umpire to review the incident.

Fan Reactions:

Many felt the delivery was a clear wide and criticized the umpire's call.

Some suggested that Padikkal's reaction influenced the umpire's decision.

Others lamented the absence of DRS in the unofficial Test series.

Padikkal's Performance Solidifies His Position

Despite the unfortunate dismissal, Padikkal's impressive innings has likely secured his spot as India's No.3 batter for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand. His performance stands out, especially with senior openers struggling in both innings.

In his Test career, Padikkal has accumulated 418 runs, including two centuries and a fifty, boasting an impressive average of 69.66 across four matches.