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Devdutt Padikkal
RCB's star opening batsman Devdutt Padikkal names former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir as his role model. The youngster also stated that he still watches the veteran opener's batting. The Karnataka batsman says that he is inspired by every cricketer who has represented the country. Still, he believes that the former Kolkata Knight Riders captain had a lasting impression on shaping his cricket journey. Devdutt Padikkal will be seen partnering with Virat Kohli as the Royal Challengers Bangalore's opener in the forthcoming IPL season. However, the southpaw might miss a couple of games at the beginning as he was tested positive for COVID-19.
Padikkal was in great form in the esteemed Vijay Hazare Trophy. He also emerged as the second-highest run-getter in the tournament. The 20-year-old amassed 737 runs from seven games at an average of 147.40. For the unversed, Devdutt Padikkal developed as one of the biggest revelations of IPL 2020, courtesy of his fine run at the top order for the Bengaluru franchise. In his second season in the Indian Premier League, the left-hander won hearts with his consistency, temperament, and maturity. The 20-year-old scored 473 runs in his 15 IPL matches at an average of 31.53.
Devdutt Padikkal tests negative for COVID-19
According to a report on india.com, the left-handed batsman will join the RCB bio-bubble after another negative test. The information also added that Padikkal could even be fit in time for the opening match between RCB and MI. On March 22, it was affirmed that Devdutt Padikkal had tested positive for COVID-19. The news came just a day after Delhi Capitals disclosed that their all-rounder Axar Patel had tested positive for the virus and had been placed in isolation.
As per the BCCI SOP, any cricketer who tests positive for COVID-19 will have to isolate himself in the allotted area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of ten days. Meanwhile, on Sunday, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly announced that IPL 2021 would go ahead as per schedule despite the rapid rise in COVID-19 cases over the past month. New restraints have been imposed in Maharashtra to try and stop the spread of Coronavirus. The IPL 14 is set to commence from April 9, where the defending champions and five-time IPL winners Mumbai Indians will face Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore.