RCB Sign Mayank Agarwal as Injury Replacement for Devdutt Padikkal
The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have made a crucial move ahead of the remainder of IPL 2025 by signing Mayank Agarwal as an injury replacement for Devdutt Padikkal. Padikkal, who has been a vital part of the RCB lineup this season, unfortunately suffered an injury to his right hamstring and will be missing the rest of the tournament.
Mayank Agarwal, on the other hand, is returning to the RCB fold after a 12-year hiatus. He previously played for the franchise from 2011 to 2013 and has now joined the team once again, albeit temporarily, for a price tag of ₹1 crore. This news comes as a significant boost to the RCB camp, who will be hoping that Agarwal’s experience and batting skills can help them turn their season around.
Devdutt Padikkal’s injury is a big blow for RCB, especially considering he has been one of their most consistent performers this season. The young opener has played 10 matches for the franchise, scoring 233 runs at an average of 23.30. His absence will be felt, but the RCB management has moved quickly to fill the void by bringing in Mayank Agarwal.
Agarwal, who has been part of the Indian Test setup, has a decent record in the IPL, with 1,444 runs in 71 matches at an average of 25.64. He has also represented Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) and Kolkata Knight Riders in the league. His experience in the shorter format will be invaluable to RCB, who are looking to make a late push for a playoff spot.
The RCB team has been struggling this season, with only three wins in their 10 matches so far. They are currently placed eighth on the points table, and a strong finish to the tournament will be crucial for them to make the playoffs. Agarwal’s inclusion will not only provide stability to the top order but also bring in much-needed experience and batting depth to the team.
In a statement released by the RCB management, it was confirmed that Mayank Agarwal will join the team immediately and be available for selection for their next match. The franchise also wished Devdutt Padikkal a speedy recovery and thanked him for his contributions to the team this season.
This move is a testament to the RCB management’s proactive approach to dealing with injuries and filling the gaps in their squad. They have shown that they are willing to think outside the box and make bold decisions to strengthen their team.
As RCB fans eagerly await the return of Agarwal to the team, they will be hoping that he can make an immediate impact and help the team climb up the points table. With the playoffs still within reach, Agarwal’s inclusion could prove to be a masterstroke by the RCB management, and fans will be excited to see how he fares in his second stint with the franchise.
