Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter Devdutt Padikkal came up with a fifty against the Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026. The Yellow Army travelled to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday, April 5, 2026 for the highly-anticipated Southern Derby. Only league-stage fixture between the RCB and the CSK for this season, the game saw visiting captain Ruturaj Gaikwad winning the toss and letting the home team put the score on the board first.

The Red and Gold Army got off to a modest start and lost their opener and former skipper Virat Kohli at 28 runs. While Kohli’s wicket came as an early setback for the reigning champions, Devdutt Padikkal, who came in at third, took reins in his hand and hit a 28-ball 50. He combined five boundaries and two maximums to achieve the milestone. However, he was forced to walk back to the dug out on the very next ball after a Jamie Overton delivery bowled him out.

Whenever I get an opportunity, I want to contribute: Devdutt Padikkal

Padikkal, who is fondly called DDP amongst fans and teammates, earlier spoke on how he aims to contribute towards the team’s success. However, he also opened up on being an impact sub and not being able to get to the field and said that he likes being on the field. “It is quite frustrating, to be honest,” said Padikkal before the game.

“I really enjoy myself out there on the field. And whenever I get an opportunity, I want to contribute. And on the field is something that you can give regardless of what's happening with your bat. So, yeah, it is a little bit frustrating, but at the same time, whenever you get that chance, you have to contribute,” he added.

He also talked about the intensity of the game and revealed that it is a tough game against CSK, but the team wanted to start well and continue the momentum. Notably, as of now, the RCB were batting at 206 at the loss of three wickets.