Full Name: Devdutt Babunu Padikkal
Date of Birth: July 7, 2000
Birthplace: Edappal, Kerala, India
Nationality: Indian
Profession: Cricketer (Batsman)
Role: Top-order Batsman
Batting Style: Left-handed
Bowling Style: Right-arm off-break
Teams: India, Karnataka, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Early Life and Background
Devdutt Padikkal was born in Kerala but grew up in Bangalore, Karnataka, where his cricketing journey began. His family moved to Bangalore when he was a child, allowing him to train under better facilities and coaching. His father, Babunu Kunnath, played a key role in nurturing his talent and supporting his dream of becoming a professional cricketer.
Padikkal joined the Karnataka Institute of Cricket at a young age, where he quickly impressed coaches with his elegant stroke play and solid technique. By his teenage years, he was already considered one of the most gifted young batsmen in state cricket.
Domestic Career
Devdutt Padikkal made his debut for Karnataka in the 2018–19 Vijay Hazare Trophy, immediately making an impact with consistent performances. In the 2019–20 domestic season, he was the highest run-scorer in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 609 runs in 11 matches, showcasing maturity beyond his years.
He also made his Ranji Trophy debut in the same season and soon became one of Karnataka’s most reliable run-getters in all formats. His composure at the crease and ability to anchor innings earned him comparisons with legends like Yuvraj Singh and Sourav Ganguly.
IPL Journey
Devdutt Padikkal’s entry into the Indian Premier League (IPL) came when he was picked by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 2019. Though he didn’t play that season, his real breakout came in IPL 2020, held in the UAE.
He scored 473 runs in his debut IPL season — the highest for an uncapped Indian player that year — and even outshone stars like Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers in several matches. His stylish cover drives and fearless approach made him an instant fan favorite.
Later, he played for Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), continuing to display consistency and elegance.
International Career
Padikkal earned his India debut in July 2021 in a T20I against Sri Lanka. Though he has played limited international matches so far, he remains a strong contender for a regular spot in the Indian white-ball squad.
Achievements
- Highest run-scorer in the 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy.
- Emerging Player of the Tournament (IPL 2020, nominated).
- Scored four consecutive half-centuries in IPL 2020.
- Scored his maiden IPL century (101 vs Rajasthan Royals, 2021).
- Represented India at U-19 level and in domestic tournaments.
Personal Life
Devdutt Padikkal comes across as one of the most humble and grounded young talents in Indian cricket today. Despite gaining fame at a very young age, he has maintained a calm and composed demeanor both on and off the field. Born into a supportive family, Devdutt often credits his parents and siblings for providing him with the encouragement and guidance needed to pursue cricket professionally. His father, Babunu Kunnath, played a crucial role in shaping his career, accompanying him to matches and training sessions and always ensuring that Devdutt stayed focused on his goals.
Apart from cricket, Devdutt has a keen interest in fitness, health, and personal development. He follows a disciplined workout routine and pays special attention to his diet, knowing well that physical fitness is as important as mental toughness in professional sports. Devdutt also enjoys spending his free time reading about cricket legends, learning from their strategies, and understanding the game from different perspectives.
He is known to be very close to his friends and teammates, often sharing lighter moments and maintaining a positive environment in the dressing room. Off the field, he is described as soft-spoken, approachable, and friendly, earning respect not just for his cricketing skills but also for his personality.
Despite the pressures of professional cricket, Devdutt ensures he maintains a healthy work-life balance, often traveling with family whenever possible, enjoying leisure time, and keeping his personal life private yet fulfilling. His grounded nature has made him a role model for aspiring cricketers across India, proving that talent combined with humility and discipline can lead to lasting success.
Future Prospects
With his impeccable technique, strong temperament, and hunger for runs, Devdutt Padikkal is considered one of the future pillars of Indian cricket. Many experts believe he could be a long-term solution for India’s top order in white-ball cricket.
Interesting Facts
- His favorite cricketer is Rahul Dravid, who also hails from Karnataka.
- He played football before fully switching to cricket.
- He admires Virat Kohli for his discipline and work ethic.
