Devdutt Padikkal opens up on Virat Kohli’s influence and Yuvraj Singh’s fearlessness

Devdutt Padikkal opens up on Virat Kohli’s influence and Yuvraj Singh’s fearlessness

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Youngsters Inspired by Virat Kohli Ahead of IPL Auction 2026

As the IPL Auction 2026 approaches, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Devdutt Padikkal has shed light on the magic of being in the same dressing room as the iconic Virat Kohli. The auction is set to take place on December 16 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Kohli played a pivotal role in RCB’s maiden IPL title victory this year, and Padikkal has opened up about the influence the Indian batting superstar has on the team.

Virat Kohli’s Influence on RCB Youngsters

Padikkal revealed that the culture in the RCB dressing room runs deep, with young players naturally gravitating towards Kohli’s presence. It has become a tradition for newcomers to reach for Kohli’s bat upon entering the dressing room, without even needing to ask for it.

According to Padikkal, Kohli brings energy and fun to the team, often taking charge of the playlist, dancing around, and keeping spirits high with his lively presence. The senior-most player in the squad is expected to provide a bat to the new players, who are eager to emulate Kohli’s on-field prowess.

Padikkal’s Inspiration from Yuvraj Singh

While Kohli has been a guiding force for the RCB squad, Padikkal also shared how former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has inspired him as a left-handed batter. He praised Yuvraj’s fearless attitude, resilience in the face of adversity, and elegant batting style.

Watching Yuvraj bat has helped Padikkal refine his own game, adding flair and creativity to his left-handed strokeplay. He expressed admiration for Yuvraj’s elegance and the impact it had on his approach to batting as a left-hander.

Padikkal’s Growth in the 2025 IPL Season

Despite facing challenges like injuries in the 2025 IPL season, Padikkal made a significant impact by scoring 247 runs in just 10 games at an impressive strike rate of 150.60. His contributions played a crucial role in RCB clinching their first IPL title earlier this year.

As the RCB youngsters look up to veterans like Kohli and draw inspiration from legends like Yuvraj Singh, they aim to carry forward the winning momentum into the upcoming IPL season. The team’s camaraderie and the mentorship provided by experienced players are key factors in shaping the future of cricket in Bengaluru.

With the anticipation building up for the IPL Auction 2026, fans are eager to see how RCB’s roster will evolve and how the young talents nurtured under the guidance of Kohli and other senior players will shine on the cricketing stage.

The Impact of Mentorship in Cricket

Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping the future of cricket, especially for young players like those in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad. The guidance and wisdom imparted by experienced players like Virat Kohli and Yuvraj Singh can have a significant impact on the development and performance of budding cricketers.

Being able to learn from the best in the game not only enhances technical skills but also instills a sense of professionalism, work ethic, and mental fortitude required to excel at the highest level. The influence of mentors like Kohli and Singh extends beyond the field, as they also serve as role models for the younger generation, demonstrating the values of hard work, dedication, and resilience.

Emulating Legends in the IPL

As young players like Devdutt Padikkal look up to icons like Yuvraj Singh and Virat Kohli, they strive to emulate their heroes’ success on the cricket field. By studying their techniques, mindset, and approach to the game, these budding cricketers aim to carve out their own path to greatness.

Padikkal’s journey in the IPL showcases the impact of emulating legends on a player’s growth and performance. His ability to blend his own style with the inspirations drawn from players like Yuvraj and Kohli has been instrumental in his success on the field.

The Evolution of RCB’s Young Talents

With the upcoming IPL Auction 2026 on the horizon, the spotlight is on how Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s young talents will evolve and contribute to the team’s success in the future. The nurturing environment provided by senior players like Kohli and the inspiration drawn from cricketing legends will be key in shaping the trajectory of these promising players.

As RCB’s youngsters gear up for the auction, they carry with them the lessons learned from their mentors and the experiences gained on the field. This blend of mentorship, talent, and determination sets the stage for an exciting season ahead, where the young brigade aims to make their mark in the world of cricket.

The Future of Cricket in Bengaluru

As Royal Challengers Bengaluru continues to foster a culture of camaraderie, mentorship, and excellence, the future of cricket in the city looks promising. The team’s commitment to nurturing young talent, coupled with the leadership of experienced players, bodes well for the development of cricket at the grassroots level in Bengaluru.

With fans eagerly awaiting the outcome of the IPL Auction 2026 and the unveiling of RCB’s roster, there is excitement in the air as to how the team’s young stars will shine on the big stage. The legacy of mentorship and inspiration passed down from cricketing legends to the next generation is sure to leave a lasting impact on the sport in Bengaluru and beyond.

By emphasizing the importance of mentorship, the evolution of young talents, and the future of cricket in Bengaluru, the expanded content delves deeper into the dynamics at play within the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad and the broader cricketing landscape.

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