MI vs RCB: Why is Devdutt Padikkal not playing today?

Devdutt Padikkal not playing today match: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli has finally unveiled to mystery regarding Devdutt Padikkal’s availability for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season opener. Kohli stated that Padikkal will be missing the first game against Mumbai Indians (MI) due to health reasons as he has just now recovered from the deadly coronavirus.

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Why is Devdutt Padikkal not playing today?

RCB captain Virat Kohli mentioned that young Rajat Patidar who had a fabulous domestic season for Madhya Pradesh will be making his debut in the MI vs RCB IPL 2021 1^st match. Bangalore’s four overseas players for the game are AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Kyle Jamieson and Daniel Christian. Surprisingly, Kohli has won the toss and has opted to bowl first. However, it will be interesting to see who open the batting with the RCB skipper in the second innings.

“It’s unbelievable, bit of a mini break helped me I guess to win a toss. Going to bowl first. They’re a side who likes chasing. Good chance for us to get onto the park and create some intensity. With the balance we have this year we can do both, but have to understand who you’re playing against. We understand with the depth they have they have never out of the game. Bowling first was a no-brainer for us. Every year IPL has a different energy, a different vibe. It’s high intensity. Playing for the same franchise has been an honour for me. Loyalty is a big thing for me.

Dubai was great as well but this just feels like home. Great feeling to be playing in our stadiums and for people to watch in our prime times. Three guys making their debut: Maxwell, Jamieson, Christian is back after eight years for the same franchise. Rajat Patidar makes his debut as well. Padikkal has been recommended rest,” quoted RCB captain Virat Kohli at the toss.

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Who is Rajat Patidar?

27-year-old Rajat Patidar was bought by RCB in the IPL 2021 auction for his base price worth INR 20 lakh. Madhya Pradesh’s right-handed batsman has the ability to tonk big sixes with a phenomenal strike-rate of more than 140. He has been in a consistent performer for his state team in the recent domestic season. In 22 T20s, Rajat has scored nearly 700 runs at an average of close to 35.

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