Speaking in the pre-match press conference Padikkal opened up about how a change in mindset and better preparation ahead of the tournament have contributed to his vastly improved strike rate \u2014 154.36 this season, compared to 71 in 2024 and an average in the 120s in the previous editions. \u201cIt\u2019s a mental shift that you need to make when you come into T20 cricket. The game has evolved, and you have to keep up. I\u2019ve also worked a lot on the shots I want to play,\u201d Padikkal said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The 23-year-old left-hander has been a revelation at the No. 3 spot for RCB this year, bringing much-needed stability and intent to the middle-order. And he admitted that having a clear role in the team structure has played a key part in this resurgence.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt does help when you have some clarity on what your role is. But it\u2019s not just having the role \u2014 it\u2019s about going out and executing it under pressure,\u201d he said. \u201cIn the last couple of years, I didn\u2019t have too much preparation leading into IPL, and that probably had an effect on my batting. This year, I had that chance to prepare properly, and it\u2019s made a big difference.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Padikkal has notched up two half-centuries in his last two innings, confidently building on the platform laid by openers Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. And he admits that their aggressive starts often help him play his natural game without added pressure.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt\u2019s not pressure, really. It\u2019s more about maintaining the momentum when you walk in. When you\u2019ve got Virat bhai and Salt firing at the top, and then power-hitters lined up for the back end, your job becomes easier \u2014 you can just go out there and enjoy yourself.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The RCB batter, however, also believes in adapting to situations and not blindly following templates. \u201cIn most games, I\u2019ve been able to continue the momentum. But it\u2019s also about reading the situation and playing what\u2019s in front of you.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Asked about Phil Salt\u2019s availability for the CSK game after the Englishman missed the previous match due to fever, Padikkal said:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cHe\u2019s been in touch with the medical team. I\u2019m not really privy to the conversations, but hopefully, he\u2019ll be back soon.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
RCB, who have found late-season momentum with a string of wins, are eyeing a playoff berth. A win against CSK could lift them to 16 points and firmly plant them in the qualification race. But the weather forecast looms as a concern, with rain predicted in Bengaluru on Saturday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While a shortened or rain-hit game could bring in a different dynamic, Padikkal is staying focused on what\u2019s within his control \u2014 continuing the rhythm and form that has made him a crucial part of RCB\u2019s turnaround.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
RCB, who have found late-season momentum with a string of wins, are eyeing a playoff berth. A win against CSK could lift them to 16 points and firmly plant them in the qualification race. But the weather forecast looms as a concern, with rain predicted in Bengaluru on Saturday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Also Read: <\/b> LIVE Cricket Score<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n