'I’ve changed mentally and technically': Padikkal reveals truth behind his T20 transformation
Devdutt Padikkal is transforming into a T20 force, showcasing an aggressive shift in his batting after a blistering 61. He credits mental reset and technical fine-tuning with RCB's think tank for his evolution. Padikkal remains focused on his role in the explosive RCB lineup and the ultimate goal of representing India.
New Delhi: Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Devdutt Padikkal is no longer just the elegant timer of the ball; he’s evolving into a complete T20 force. Fresh off a blistering 61 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Padikkal, in an exclusive interview to TOI, opened up on the mental reset behind his aggressive shift, the technical fine-tuning with RCB’s think tank, and the clarity of his role in a power-packed lineup. As the IPL 2026 season intensifies, his ambitions remain firmly fixed on the India jersey.
This season is the battle of fearless prodigies, heavyweights and legends, and Padikkal is determined to belong among them. Excerpts... Q.
That 61 off 26 against Sunrisers Hyderabad... did it feel like a continuation of your Vijay Hazare Trophy form, or was there a conscious shift in approach for the IPL? It’s very different when you go into an IPL game.
But at the same time, having runs is always a confidence booster. And having all those runs in the domestic season definitely helped me be a lot more confident and calmer when I went out there to bat. But at the end of the day, you need to have a very aggressive approach when you go into the IPL, and your mindset definitely shifts.