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Devdutt Padikkal's Fiery Fifty Powers RCB to Thrilling Win Over GT

Devdutt Padikkal's explosive 55 off 27 balls set the foundation for Royal Challengers Bengaluru's five-wicket win over Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026. Chasing 205, Padikkal dominated the Power-play and middle overs with aggressive strokeplay. Virat Kohli anchored the chase with a smooth 81, ensuring RCB stayed ahead of the required rate. Padikkal credited his hard work, management support, and technical changes for his return to form.

Key Points: Padikkal 55 Helps RCB Beat GT by 5 Wickets in IPL 2026

  • Devdutt Padikkal scores 55 off 27 balls
  • RCB chases 205 to beat GT by 5 wickets
  • Virat Kohli anchors with 81 runs
  • Padikkal credits management support and technical changes
2 min read

IPL 2026: I've been working hard to get where I am, says Devdutt Padikkal after fiery fifty vs GT

Devdutt Padikkal scores 55 off 27 balls as Royal Challengers Bengaluru chase down 205 to beat Gujarat Titans by 5 wickets in IPL 2026.

"Feels great. I've been working hard to get where I am, and I'm glad it's paying off. - Devdutt Padikkal"

Bengaluru, April 24

Devdutt Padikkal's comeback continued to gain steam as his impressive 55 off 27 balls set the stage for Royal Challengers Bengaluru's five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2026 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday.

Reflecting on his return to form, Padikkal emphasised the effort behind the scenes. "Feels great. I've been working hard to get where I am, and I'm glad it's paying off. I think a lot of this is thanks to the self-belief that the management has given me. At the same time, I've made some technical changes in the past few years. You have to stick to those changes. Now I am seeing the results."

Chasing a tough target of 205, RCB needed a strong start, and Padikkal delivered just that. He took on the pace of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj confidently, hitting boundaries and maintaining the required run rate. One shot stood out-a beautiful lofted drive over extra cover-which he highlighted: "It was probably my favourite shot of the day for sure."

Padikkal approached the innings with a clear strategy rather than recklessness. "At the end of the day, I need to play according to the situation and assess what's happening out there. We were chasing 210, so we needed to make the most of the Power-play and keep the momentum going for the next few overs," he explained. This clarity showed as he dominated the middle overs, taking apart Prasidh Krishna and applying pressure on Rashid Khan with a mix of sweeps and lofted shots.

While Virat Kohli steadied the chase with a smooth 81, Padikkal's aggressive innings ensured RCB stayed ahead. Even after his dismissal, bowled by a clever googly from Rashid, the foundation he had laid proved crucial.

Looking ahead, Padikkal expressed his desire to contribute more significantly. "I want to help finish games, so hopefully I can do that soon," he said, while also recognising the depth of talent that gives him freedom to perform at the top. "We've seen what Tim, Romario, and Jitesh can do down the order, so with that kind of firepower, you can feel free to go out and express yourself."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Finally seeing the Padikkal of old! That lofted drive over extra cover was pure class. But I wish he would finish the game for us. He gets out at crucial moments. Hope he works on converting these fifties into big hundreds. Still, a very positive sign for RCB! 🙌
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Michael C
Great to see him back in form! That partnership with Kohli was crucial. He's clearly worked hard on his game. I'm impressed by his maturity at such a young age.
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Vikram M
The 2020 season Padikkal is back! 🔥 He always had the talent, just needed to find consistency. Look at how he played Rashid Khan - sweeping and lofting, not letting the spinner settle. This is the fearless cricket we want to see from Indian youngsters. RCB's top order looks settled now with Faf, Kohli, and Padikkal.
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Amanda J
That shot over extra cover was breathtaking! He has such elegant timing. But I think he still needs to work on his innings building - getting bowled by a googly when well set is disappointing. Still, this is a great comeback story 💪
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Kavya N
Love the humility in his interview! He's not taking credit alone but acknowledging the management and the team's depth. That's what makes a great player - knowing it's not just about individual performance. RCB fans must be over the moon with this win and his form! 🏏

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