A fortnight ago Devdutt Padikkal tested positive to COVID-19 but on Thursday he produced a stunning century for Royal Challengers Bangalore in their Indian Premier League win.
The Royal Challengers Bangalore successfully chased down the Rajasthan Royals’ total of 9-177 with 10 wickets in hand and 21 deliveries to spare in Thursday’s IPL clash in Mumbai.
Padikkal made 101no from 52 balls for RCB, while captain Virat Kohli took up a supporting role with 72no from 47 deliveries in a stunning chase.
“To be honest it’s been special, all I could do was wait my turn,” Paddikal said after missing RCB’s opening match due to COVID-19.
“When I had Covid all I wanted was to to come here and play, and when I missed the first one it really hurt me.
“The wicket was coming on really well, and when we get into a partnership like that it gets easier.”
Kohli lowered his aggression before the 20-year-old left-hand batsman brought up triple figures in what was ultimately the final over.
“No real tension when the hundred came, I told Virat to go for it,” he said.
Kohli was full of praise for Padikkal post-game too.
“Great talent, great one to look forward in the future,” he said. “I had the best seat in the house.”
The result leaves the Royals last with a 1-3 record and captain Sanju Samson scratching his head.
“Our batsmen did really well to get a score on the board but they did really well to chase without losing a wicket,” Samson said.
“We need to do some homework and need an honest review about our batting. That’s what this sport is all about, we keep on failing and we keep on coming about. It puts you down but you have to keep on fighting.”
