In a nostalgic turn for Bengaluru fans, local talent Mayank Agarwal has rejoined Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025, over a decade after making his debut for the franchise. His return comes as a replacement for Devdutt Padikkal, who has been ruled out due to a right hamstring injury.
RCB signed the seasoned opener at his base price of ₹1 crore. Padikkal had been in strong form, contributing 247 runs across 10 innings with two fifties and a strike rate of 150.60, making him the team’s second-highest scorer this season.
Agarwal, a proven campaigner with 127 IPL matches under his belt, has amassed 2661 runs, including one century and 13 half-centuries. After representing Sunrisers Hyderabad last season, he went unsold in the 2025 mega auction, but now makes a timely return to his home team.
Mo Bobat, RCB’s Director of Cricket, expressed mixed emotions: “Losing Devdutt at such a crucial stage is unfortunate. He’s been instrumental at the top. But we’re thrilled to bring in Mayank. His depth of experience and adaptability will be crucial as we approach the season’s climax.”
RCB is set to conclude their league campaign with three critical matches—against Lucknow Super Giants on May 9 in Lucknow, followed by Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 13 and Kolkata Knight Riders on May 17, both in Bengaluru.
With Agarwal’s return, RCB hopes to harness veteran stability and fan fervor in the final stretch.
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