Gautam Gambhir was a big-game player, want to emulate him: Devdutt Padikkal

The opening batsman Devdutt Padikkal was a revelation for the IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2020, hosted in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The batsman emerged as the highest run-getter for the Bangalore outfit with 473 runs in 15 games. In the previous edition, Padikkal opened the innings with Aaron Finch but in IPL 2021, the youngster has been opening the batting alongside skipper Virat Kohli.

Indian captain Virat Kohli is known for his aggressive outlook towards the game. When asked whether he will be playing the aggressive role since he is opening with Virat, Padikkal reckoned that it will be an enriching experience to open alongside Kohli. The left-handed batsman added that he wants to pick Virat’s unmatchable passion for the game.

“I do not think so. He is such a talented cricketer, he has so much experience, to be playing with him makes my game easier. I am really looking forward to having a really good partnership with him. Definitely, Virat’s passion for the game, the drive for the game he has is remarkable, that is something I have really tried to pick up on,” the 20-year-old said as quoted by Rediff.

In IPL 2021, RCB is experiencing a dream run as for the first time in history, they have won all their three league games and are proudly sitting at the top of the table. Speaking about the same, the left-hander acknowledged that the franchise has a balanced squad and there is a real togetherness among the players. The youngster also believes that RCB has a perfect blend of batters, bowlers, and all-rounders.

“We have a balanced RCB side this season and we have a lot of options in every department. It is great to have such a great combination and that knowledge and experience as well. We can see that there is a real togetherness about the team this season,” Padikkal added.

Gautam Gambhir was a big-game player and it is one thing I really want to emulate: Devdutt Padikkal

It is no secret that Devdutt Padikkal idolises former Indian opening batsman Gautam Gambhir. The 20-year-old has many times spoken about his admiration for the veteran cricketer. When asked why he idolises Gambhir, Padikkal asserted that Gambhir is a big match player and has always helped the team in crunch situations. Thus, Padikkal wants to adapt Gambhir’s ability to perform when the team is under pressure.

“He was a big-game player and it is one thing I really want to emulate because it is in those crunch situations that those big players come out and do well for the side. He always seemed to do that when the team was under pressure and that is something I would want to do,” Devdutt concluded.

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