The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have made a significant move in the ongoing IPL 2025 season by signing former player Mayank Agarwal as an injury replacement for Devdutt Padikkal, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament due to a right hamstring injury. This announcement was confirmed through an official media release on the IPL website, making it clear that RCB is looking to bolster their squad as they aim for a strong finish in the league stage.
Mayank Agarwal, who previously donned the RCB jersey from 2011 to 2013, rejoins the franchise for a fee of INR 1 crore. His return comes at a crucial time for the team, currently sitting second in the points table, just behind the Gujarat Titans on Net Run Rate. The franchise is keen to maintain momentum as they prepare for the playoffs.
Padikkal's absence is a notable blow for RCB. The stylish left-handed batter had shown promising form this season, scoring 247 runs in 10 matches at an impressive average of 27.44 and a strike rate of 150.60. His performances included two half-centuries, with notable scores of 61 against the Punjab Kings and 50 against the Rajasthan Royals. However, his season was cut short due to the hamstring injury he sustained during play.
In the wake of Padikkal's injury, RCB has turned to Agarwal, who brings a wealth of experience to the team. Over his IPL career, he has participated in 127 matches, accumulating 2,661 runs, which includes one century and 13 half-centuries. His experience will be invaluable as RCB looks to solidify their batting lineup for the crucial matches ahead.
Interestingly, Agarwal's journey back to RCB comes after a disappointing stint with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) last season, where he managed to score only 64 runs in four appearances. His exclusion from the IPL 202 auction last November was surprising, especially considering his stellar performance in domestic cricket, where he finished as the second-highest run-scorer in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, amassing 651 runs in 10 games at an average of 93.
Moreover, in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he also showcased his skills, scoring 179 runs in 7 matches at an average of 25.27, while maintaining a strike rate of over 150. Now, Agarwal has the opportunity to prove himself once again on the big stage as he returns to RCB.
RCB's upcoming fixtures are crucial, with a match against the Lucknow Super Giants scheduled for May 9, followed by home games against the Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad. The team is looking to secure their place in the playoffs, and Agarwal's inclusion is expected to provide the necessary boost to the top-order batting lineup.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Mayank Agarwal adapts to his role in the team and contributes to their success in the remaining matches of IPL 2025. With the stakes high and the playoffs looming, every run will count as RCB aims to clinch their first IPL title.
