Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have suffered a big blow during their IPL 2025 run as in-form batter Devdutt Padikkal has been excluded from the rest of the competition due to a right hamstring strain. The franchise, ranked second on the table behind Gujarat Titans on Net Run Rate, wasted no time replacing him with seasoned batter Mayank Agarwal.

Devdutt Padikkal has been having a good run with the bat, having transformed himself at No. 3. Following a couple of lean years, the left-hander discovered form and consistency, scoring 247 runs in 10 games at a staggering strike rate of 150.61, his highest in any IPL season. He also hit two half-centuries, being an integral part of RCB's success thus far.

His premature injury, though, has compelled the Bengaluru-based team to look for reinforcements, and in steps a familiar name in Mayank Agarwal. The 34-year-old has been picked up for INR 1 Crore and has with him an abundance of IPL experience. Having begun his IPL career with RCB, Agarwal has gone on to play for several franchises, including Punjab Kings and, most recently, Sunrisers Hyderabad.

ನಮ್ಮ ಮನೆ ಮಗ ಮಯಾಂಕ್! 🥹

After 1️⃣2️⃣ long years, 𝐡𝐞’𝐬 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 where he belongs. Happy #HomeComing, Mayank. 🏡

12th Man Army will be on top of the moon hearing this, and they’ll all be right behind you. 🫶 pic.twitter.com/k5RwAGINrG

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) May 7, 2025

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Agarwal Joins RCB, Looks to Make the Most of New Opportunity

While his recent SRH stint in IPL 2024 was disappointing with just 64 runs from four matches Agarwal's overall track record tells him what he is capable of. In 127 IPL games, he has recorded 2661 runs, with a century and 13 half-centuries. His seniors' experience at the top order and acquaintance with RCB's environment can be an asset as the team would look to carry momentum into the latter stages of the tournament.

RCB will be hoping that Agarwal can fill in with ease and deliver stability and power in the order. With a playoff position within reach, the franchise will need all its depth and resilience to see through the decisive last lap of the league.

As the season of IPL 2025 heats up, everyone will now be keeping a close eye on how RCB deals with losing Padikkal and whether Agarwal will be able to capitalize on this moment to stage a powerful comeback on the big stage.