In 2025, Padikkal played a crucial role at the top of the order for RCB, scoring 247 runs in 10 matches at an impressive strike rate of 150.61.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) mentor Dinesh Karthik batted for the inclusion of Devdutt Padikkal in the Indian team.

Amid the high-scoring encounter against CSK, a hilarious moment from RCB's innings went viral on social media, leaving fans in splits.

Devdutt Padikkal shared that Virat Kohli advised him to maintain a high run rate and keep pressure on the bowlers while Kohli anchored the innings.

In fact, his 26-ball 61 for RCB was representative of the transformation happening to his batting since 2024 or early 2025.

RCB's Devdutt Padikkal and Virat Kohli exploited SRH's bowling lapses, leading to a swift victory in 15.4 overs despite SRH posting 201 for 9.

RCB vs SRH: Devdutt Padikkal's aggressive innings laid the foundation for RCB's win, prompting Virat Kohli to adopt a supporting role during the chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

IPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bengaluru chased down the target of 202 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2026 opener with more than 4 overs to spare.

Devdutt Padikkal's 26-ball-61 crusted with class and Virat Kohli's masterly unbeaten half-century powered RCB to a dominant six-wicket victory over SRH.

RCB has not made big changes to their squad ahead of the new season, but some good additions of Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy, and Jacob Bethell, along with Devdutt Padikkal looking in great touch ahead of the season.