In a recent standout performance, former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) player AB de Villiers commended young Indian cricketer Devdutt Padikkal for his impressive innings of 167 runs against Sri Lanka in Galle. Padikkal replaced Sai Sudharshan at No. 3 in the batting order and showed exceptional skill and determination, keeping India in a dominant position in the Test match.
AB de Villiers Reflects on Padikkal's Playing Style
Speaking on his YouTube channel, AB de Villiers shared fond memories of his time playing alongside Padikkal in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He expressed that he enjoyed partnering with the young left-handed batter, particularly highlighting Padikkal's ability to handle short-pitched deliveries effectively. De Villiers mentioned, "I loved batting with him, especially as a left-hander in our combination. He plays the short ball well for a player from the subcontinent, which is impressive."
Player-to-Player Dynamics
De Villiers further elaborated on how easy it was to strategize with Padikkal on the field, emphasizing their effective communication that often put opposing bowlers under pressure. He stated, "We would discuss which bowlers to attack and rotate the strike, making it tough for bowlers to find their rhythm." This left-right batting combination often proved challenging for opponents, resulting in significant partnerships.
Padikkal's Journey with RCB
Devdutt Padikkal, now 26, has had a promising career with RCB across two stints, tallying over 400 runs in three of his four seasons. His contributions were pivotal in RCB's triumph during the 2025 season and in their title defense in 2026. In the 2026 season alone, Padikkal scored 464 runs at an impressive strike rate of 168.72, including three half-centuries.
Statistical Highlights of Padikkal's Performance
| Season | Matches | Runs | Strike Rate |
|---|
| 2025 | 15 | 456 | 150.88 |
| 2026 | 15 | 464 | 168.72 |
Conclusion
Devdutt Padikkal's performance is a testament to his growth and potential in international cricket. With endorsements from legends like AB de Villiers, Padikkal is showing that he is one of the modern generation's rising stars. His calm demeanor coupled with exceptional batting skills makes him a valued player in the Indian lineup. As he continues to build on his successes, the cricket community watches eagerly to see what the future holds for him.