Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have suffered a significant setback as Devdutt Padikkal has been out of action for the rest of IPL 2025 after being injured with a hamstring strain. The left-hand batter had been instrumental in supporting RCB to a strong season, which propelled them to the second position in the points table behind only Gujarat Titans on Net Run Rate.

Making the most of time, RCB have signed up Mayank Agarwal in place of the rest of the season. The seasoned top-order batsman, who started his IPL career at RCB, has played 127 IPL matches, scoring more than 2,000 runs, with one century and 13 half-centuries. Despite going unsold in the previous auction after a lukewarm season with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2024, Agarwal has now been signed for INR 1 crore.

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Mayank Returns to Where It All Started

In a heartwarming video shared by RCB on social media, Virat Kohli welcomed Agarwal back into the squad and praised his character and work ethic.

watch the video:

“Dev, you’ve played a massive role in us being here, very well done. I’ve had a lot of fun working with you! And we wish you a speedy recovery”: 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢 🫡

Virat welcomes Mayank to the team and thanks Dev for all the good work, on @bigbasket_com presents RCB Bold… pic.twitter.com/tpXv5MJ61r

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) May 8, 2025

“Mayank is such a lovely guy. He gives 120% for the team. We’ll have an amazing time having him back with us,” said Kohli. “I can guarantee you this guy will do anything and everything for this team because I know RCB is very close to his heart.”

The former RCB skipper also shared his admiration for Agarwal’s perseverance, saying, “We always wanted to get this guy back here at RCB not in this way, of course but God has his own plans. Your hard work has truly paid off. We’re sure you’ll have a great impact.”

A Word of Gratitude for Devdutt Padikkal

Kohli also took a moment to acknowledge Padikkal’s contributions to RCB’s campaign so far. “Dev, you’ve played a massive role in us being here. Very well done. I’ve had a lot of fun working with you. We wish you a speedy recovery.”

RCB currently hold second place on the IPL 2025 points table with a Net Run Rate of +0.482. As the playoffs approach, all eyes will be on how Mayank Agarwal settles in and bolsters the top order.