Devdutt Padikkal has looked like a different batter in this IPL, stepping up as a crucial part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s batting order. Once known mainly for polished, timing-based strokeplay, he has expanded his toolkit this year—especially against short-pitched deliveries—and has started showing a more assertive mindset from the first over. That shift has helped him play with more freedom during the powerplay while keeping the run-rate moving.
Over his IPL career, Padikkal’s strike rate has been just above 130, but this season he is operating at 184.07. The jump in tempo has eased pressure on RCB’s middle order and given the team a steadier platform in the early phases of chases. Just as importantly, his ability to adjust to the demands of different situations has stood out, making him one of the more influential performers in the tournament for RCB right now.
Quick facts
- Devdutt Padikkal has elevated his game this IPL and become a key figure in RCB’s batting line-up.
- His IPL strike rate this season is 184.07 (career strike rate is slightly above 130).
- In the match versus Gujarat Titans, he made 55 off 27 balls with 6 sixes and 2 fours during a 206-run chase.
- RCB won against Gujarat Titans by five wickets, reaching the target with seven balls remaining.
- After the win, RCB moved to second place with 10 points, one behind Punjab Kings.
In the most recent outing against Gujarat Titans, Padikkal set the tone during RCB’s pursuit of 206. He struck a quick half-century, finishing with 55 off 27 deliveries, including six maximums and two boundaries to the fence. The innings showcased clean striking, with the confidence to clear the ropes whenever the opportunity arrived.
From the start, he played with clear intent, raising the pressure on the bowlers as the chase required momentum. Even with the match in a high-stakes zone, his attacking approach helped keep the target in sight and ensured RCB stayed on track. The result was a knock that felt decisive, not just in runs but in the way it shifted control of the chase.
Ian Bishop’s reaction
Former West Indies fast bowler and commentator Ian Bishop was visibly impressed by Padikkal’s influence, noting that the knock stood out even though Virat Kohli (81) and Sai Sudharsan (100) posted larger totals in the same game. Bishop pointed to Padikkal’s aggression, his power, and his ability to punish quality deliveries as the difference-maker, describing the performance as something that truly left him in awe despite the scorecard suggesting otherwise.
“Devdutt Padikkal blew me away tonight and I’ve seen a lot. That blew me away, honestly. I’m sorry. What he’s done this season, the power, the aggression, the ability to get good balls away, I find it mind-blowing that no one come and tell me in the future that as a cricketer, you can’t improve at some stage during your career. This guy is done. DDP, top man, Virat was good, Sai good. Devdutt Padikkal, tonight, blew me away,” Bishop said on ESPNCricinfo.
Alongside Padikkal’s impact, Royal Challengers Bengaluru also strengthened their position in the standings. RCB climbed to second spot on the points table after a five-wicket win over Gujarat Titans on Friday. Chasing 206, they completed the job with seven balls to spare, guided by a strong all-round display that reflected their current momentum.
With the victory, RCB now sit on 10 points, trailing table-toppers Punjab Kings by just one point. The win not only underlined their form but also highlighted how Padikkal’s improved brand of batting is helping RCB finish chases with authority.
