Devdutt Padikkal Snubs Virat Kohli as He Names Gautam Gambhir His Cricket Idol Ahead of IPL Final
Cricket fans are always eager to hear about what inspires their favorite players, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star Devdutt Padikkal recently offered some fascinating insights into his cricketing journey. Ahead of the highly anticipated IPL 2026 Final between RCB and Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Padikkal made a surprising revelation that has certainly got the cricket world talking. In a candid interaction, Devdutt Padikkal snubs Virat Kohli as he names Gautam Gambhir his cricket idol, a choice that has resonated widely among enthusiasts.
A Surprising Idol Choice: Gambhir and Yuvraj Over Kohli
When asked about the cricketer he looked up to during his formative years, Padikkal’s response raised more than a few eyebrows. Despite having spent several seasons sharing the dressing room and playing alongside modern Indian batting legend and RCB icon Virat Kohli, Padikkal chose to bypass Kohli, instead naming former Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir and the legendary all-rounder Yuvraj Singh as his primary inspirations. “That’s a tough question. There are a few, but I would say Gautam Gambhir and Yuvraj Singh,” Padikkal stated, clearly indicating the profound impact these two stalwarts had on him.
This decision particularly surprised many within the cricketing fraternity. Given Kohli’s status as a global superstar and an influential figure within the RCB camp, it was widely assumed that any younger player from the franchise would naturally gravitate towards him as an idol. However, Padikkal’s admiration for Gambhir and Yuvraj stems from his childhood, highlighting a different kind of influence that shaped his early cricketing dreams and aspirations. It speaks volumes about the distinct qualities and playing styles that captured the young left-hander’s imagination.
The Enduring Legacy of Gautam Gambhir and Yuvraj Singh
Padikkal’s choice of Gautam Gambhir and Yuvraj Singh as his idols is certainly understandable when one considers their immense contributions to Indian cricket, particularly during a golden era of white-ball dominance. Both players were instrumental figures in some of India’s most significant triumphs on the international stage, earning them a special place in the hearts of fans and aspiring cricketers alike.
- Gautam Gambhir: Known for his steely resolve and ability to perform under immense pressure, Gambhir was a cornerstone at the top of India’s batting order. His crucial knocks in major finals are etched in cricketing history. Who can forget his match-winning 97 in the 2011 ODI World Cup final or his vital 75 in the 2007 T20 World Cup final? Gambhir’s gritty approach and knack for delivering when it mattered most made him a true hero, embodying a spirit of resilience that clearly resonated with Padikkal.
- Yuvraj Singh: A flamboyant left-handed all-rounder, Yuvraj Singh was synonymous with explosive batting, a fearless attitude, and match-winning performances. His ability to turn games around with both bat and ball, coupled with his incredible fielding, made him a complete package. Yuvraj’s six sixes in an over during the 2007 T20 World Cup and his all-round heroics in the 2011 ODI World Cup, where he was named Player of the Tournament, showcase why he remains an icon for many young cricketers, including Padikkal.
These two players didn’t just win matches; they inspired a generation with their courage, skill, and ability to shine on the biggest stages. Their pivotal roles in India’s 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup victories cemented their legendary status, making them natural role models for any young cricketer growing up during that period.
Beyond Idols: Memorable Moments and Personal Preferences
The conversation with Devdutt Padikkal wasn’t just limited to his cricketing idols. He also shared several other fascinating insights into his career and personal preferences, giving fans a deeper look into the man behind the bat.
The Coolest IPL Memory and Favorite Shot
When reflecting on his journey in the Indian Premier League, Padikkal didn’t hesitate to name “winning the trophy and just lifting that trophy” as his coolest and most special IPL memory so far. While the context of “winning the trophy” is slightly ambiguous given RCB’s history, it likely refers to a significant personal or team achievement that felt like a trophy win to him, perhaps an internal league or a standout season. It highlights the ultimate aspiration of every player in the tournament: to taste championship glory. As for his favorite cricket shot, Padikkal picked the elegant and effective “flick shot,” a staple of many left-handed batsmen.
A Memorable IPL Century
Among his many innings, Padikkal fondly recalled his brilliant IPL century for RCB against Rajasthan Royals in 2021 as the most memorable knock of his career. This particular innings showcased his immense talent and potential. In that match, he hammered an unbeaten 101 runs off just 52 balls, decorated with 11 fours and six towering sixes. This scintillating performance helped RCB secure a dominant 10-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, a truly unforgettable day for the young southpaw and his team.
The Stories Behind the Numbers and Nicknames
Cricket players often have unique stories behind their jersey numbers and nicknames, and Devdutt Padikkal is no exception. He shed light on the origins of both, adding another layer of personal connection for his fans.
The Significance of Jersey Number 37
Padikkal revealed that his jersey number, 37, isn’t just a random pick. He explained, “I think it’s something to do with astrology. It’s my mom’s doing, so yeah, 37 is from there.” This personal touch, influenced by his mother’s belief in astrology, gives his number a deeper, more meaningful significance, showcasing a charming blend of personal belief and family influence in his professional life.
The Origin of “DDP”
The popular nickname “DDP” has become synonymous with Devdutt Padikkal, widely used by his teammates, commentators, and fans alike. Padikkal graciously credited former New Zealand cricketer and renowned commentator Simon Doull for coining the moniker. “I think my nickname right now that everyone talks about is DDP. And as far as I remember, it was Simon Doull who started it, so all credit,” Padikkal stated, acknowledging the role Doull played in popularizing his abbreviated identity.
Devdutt Padikkal’s Stellar IPL 2026 Season
Beyond these personal anecdotes, it’s crucial to highlight Devdutt Padikkal’s outstanding performance in the IPL 2026 season. He has undeniably enjoyed the best season of his career, playing a pivotal role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru reaching the final for the second consecutive time. His growth as a player has been evident through a completely new and aggressive approach to his batting.
In 15 matches during IPL 2026, Padikkal amassed an impressive 463 runs at a solid average of 35.62. What truly stands out is his vastly improved strike rate of 170.85, indicating a conscious effort and successful execution of scoring at a much faster pace than ever before. This aggressive mindset has added another dimension to his game, making him a more dangerous and impactful batsman. Throughout the season, he also smashed three crucial half-centuries, with a highest score of 61, consistently contributing significantly to RCB’s successful campaign. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure has been a key factor in his team’s journey to the summit clash.
Devdutt Padikkal’s journey, marked by surprising idol choices, memorable innings, and personal stories, continues to evolve. His candid revelations offer fans a unique glimpse into the mind of a modern cricketer, balancing deep respect for legends with his own burgeoning career. As he continues to make his mark, both on and off the field, Padikkal remains a compelling figure in the world of cricket.
