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Devdutt Padikkal has shared some interesting stories from his cricket journey ahead of the IPL 2026 final between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 31).
Padikkal surprisingly ignored modern Indian batting legend and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) icon Virat Kohli when asked about the cricketer he looked up to while growing up ahead of the summit clash in Ahmedabad.
Devdutt Padikkal ignores Virat Kohli, says Gautam Gambhir and Yuvraj Singh inspire him the most
Devdutt Padikkal ignored Virat Kohli and named current Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir and legendary all-rounder Yuvraj Singh as the players who inspired him the most.
His choice surprised many, especially because Padikkal has spent many years sharing the RCB dressing room with Kohli. But the stylish left-hander admired Gambhir and Yuvraj the most in his childhood years.
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Both Gambhir and Yuvraj were heroes during India’s golden era in white-ball cricket. Gambhir was known for handling pressure in big matches and playing important innings at the top of the order, while Yuvraj became famous for his explosive batting, fearless attitude and match-winning performances.
He also played a key role in India’s victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. When Devdutt Padikkal was asked to share his cricket idols who he grew up watching on JioHotStar, he said, “That’s a tough question. There are a few, but I would say Gautam Gambhir and Yuvraj Singh.”
Devdutt Padikkal also reveals his favorite memory and favorite stroke
Padikkal also told about his most special and best IPL memory. The RCB star said that “winning the trophy and lifting that trophy” is the best moment of his journey so far. When Padikkal was asked about his favorite cricket shot, he chose the “flick shot”.
The left-handed batsman also recalled the most memorable innings of his career. He chose his brilliant IPL century for RCB against Rajasthan Royals as his memorable IPL innings in 2021.
Padikkal scored an unbeaten 101 off 52 balls with the help of 11 fours and six sixes and helped RCB register a massive 10-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
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Stories behind jersey number 37 and nickname ‘DDP’ revealed
Padikkal also revealed the story behind his jersey number 37. The RCB batsman said that the number was chosen because of his mother’s belief in astrology. “I think it has something to do with astrology. That’s my mom’s work, so yes, 37 is from there,” she shared.
Finally, the RCB batsman shared how he got his popular nickname “DDP”. The nickname is now widely used by teammates, fans and commentators and Padikkal owes it to former New Zealand cricketer and commentator Simon Doull.
Padikkal signed off by saying, “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.”
From the player he grew up watching to the story behind his jersey number #DevduttPadikkal answers a series of quick questions, revealing his cricket inspirations, favorite shot, most memorable win and more! ✓#TATAIPL 2026 Final #RCBvGT | Sun, May 31,… pic.twitter.com/HHpQKuruUX
– Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 31, 2026
Padikkal is in great form in IPL 2026
Notably, Padikkal is enjoying the best IPL season of his career in 2026 and played a key role in helping Royal Challengers Bangalore reach the final for the second consecutive season. The left-handed batsman showed a completely new approach and scored runs at a faster rate than ever before.
Padikkal scored 463 runs in 15 matches at an average of 35.62 and an excellent strike rate of 170.85. He also scored three half-centuries with the highest score of 61.
