Karthik: Padikkal’s IPL surge could push him into India team
Karthik: Padikkal’s IPL surge could push him into India team
RCB’s Padikkal shines with a patient 50 off 29, prompting Karthik’s praise that he could soon break into the India side if this form continues.
Devdutt Padikkal anchored RCB’s innings with a measured 50 off 29 balls as Bengaluru posted 250 for 3 on a challenging pitch. His patient start allowed him to ride the motion of the surface, and once he found the first boundary, he shifted gears, playing proper cricketing shots and scoring with distance. Dinesh Karthik highlighted Padikkal’s determination and ability to stay calm when runs were hard to come by, noting that if he keeps batting this way, it will be difficult to keep him out of the Indian team for long. He also praised Padikkal’s leadership in the Karnataka dressing room, where, at 25, he has begun contributing ideas as well as on-field energy.\n\nRCB’s total was built further by Tim David, who smashed 70 off 25 with eight sixes, and Rajat Patidar’s 48 off 19, propelling the team to a 43-run victory over Chennai Super Kings, their third straight loss. Padikkal’s partner at the top and the middle-order support helped RCB set the tone for a commanding win as they showcased a newer approach—preserve wickets early, then unleash power when the opportunity arises. Padikkal himself hinted at the evolving plan, reinforcing the idea that the side is willing to adapt to conditions and exploit scoring opportunities as they come.
