RCB IPL 2025 Practice Match: Devdutt Padikkal Smashes 82 Off 48 Balls

Devdutt Padikkal’s impressive performance of 82 runs off 48 balls came during a Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) intra-squad practice match ahead of the IPL 2025 season, held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 20, 2025. This knock has generated buzz as it signals a strong return to form for the left-handed batsman, who rejoined RCB at the IPL 2025 auction for INR 2 crore after stints with Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants.

RCB IPL 2025 Practice Match Details

In the practice match, RCB fielded two teams: Team Rajat (led by captain Rajat Patidar) and Team Jitesh (led by Jitesh Sharma). Padikkal batted for Team Rajat, opening the innings. His 82-run knock included a blend of elegant strokeplay and aggressive intent, helping his side post a formidable total of 219 for 5 in 20 overs.

While exact details like the number of boundaries and sixes aren’t fully specified in available reports, his strike rate of approximately 170.83 reflects a dynamic approach, crucial for RCB’s top-order balance, especially given their lack of left-handed options alongside overseas player Jacob Bethell. Team Jitesh managed to score 202 with the loss of 7 wickets in 20 overs.

This performance is particularly significant as Padikkal, a Karnataka native, has faced scrutiny for inconsistent IPL form in recent years, with his strike rate and adaptability under question. His knock in this practice game suggests he’s gearing up to reclaim his spot as a key top-order batsman, potentially at No. 3, complementing stars like Phil Salt and Virat Kohli.

READ ALSO: RCB Green Jersey IPL 2025: Full Reveal Details and Wearing Date

While practice match stats aren’t official, this outing has boosted optimism among RCB fans, especially after Padikkal’s recent domestic success, including a century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy quarterfinals earlier in 2025.