'I’ve changed mentally and technically': Padikkal...

What’s Happening

Here’s the thing: 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. (plot twist fr)

Story by I’ve changed mentally and technically: Padikkal reveals truth behind his T20 transformation Hindol Basu Sat, at 6:33 AM UTC · 3 min read 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.

The Details

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. That 61 off 26 against Sunrisers Hyderabad…

Why This Matters

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 different when you go into an IPL game. But at the same time, having runs is always a confidence booster.

This is the kind of move that can define a season.

Key Takeaways

• 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 Ultimately, you need to have a aggressive approach when you go into the IPL, and your mindset definitely shifts.
• You’ve gone from being seen as a classical top-order batter to someone who can switch gears explosively.
• What changed mentally and technically?

The Bottom Line

Firstly, mentally, you obviously need to believe that you are capable of batting at a tempo that is going to make you successful in the IPL, and that’s something that I had to work on a lot. I have grown up batting a certain way, and to make that shift is not that easy.

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