India, Sept. 12 -- Devdutt Padikkal, who recently scored back-to-back Test centuries against Sri Lanka following his return to international cricket after almost two years, is now ready to lead India A for two four-day games against Australia A in Puducherry. The series starts from September 22. And the left-handed batsman, who gave a good account of himself against spin and pace in Sri Lanka, is looking forward to the opportunity to lead the side.

Ever since becoming Karnataka captain towards the end of the last season, Padikkal's output as a batter has been quite impressive. He thinks he bats better when he is in a leadership role. "Definitely, it's a great opportunity to be the captain of India A side," Padikkal was quoted as saying b...