IPL 2021: He Is Another Indian Talent Coming Through - Brad Hogg Picks Devdutt Padikkal To Open With Virat Kohli

Former Australia spinner, Brad Hogg heaps high praises on Devdutt Padikkal and is excited to watch the left-hander will open alongside Virat Kohli for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL 2021.

The 20-year-old was the leading run-scorer for RCB last season, outscoring even Kohli and AB de Villiers. He continued his rich vein of form in domestic cricket- Padikkal smashed 737 at a scarcely believable average of 147.40, including 4 centuries on a trot, in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Unfortunately, he has tested positive for the coronavirus and will miss the first two matches for RCB.

Speaking about Virat Kohli opening the batting, Brad Hogg feels that it is the right-hander’s best position to bat where he can dominate the powerplay, and bat through the innings- as he did in the 5th T20I against England.

“They will have Padikkal open the batting. I think he did a fantastic job last year and is another Indian talent coming through. Opening the batting with him will be Virat Kohli. I think that is his prime position. He will be able to time the ball, pierce the gaps during the powerplay. His role will be to bat through the whole innings,” Brad Hogg said in his YouTube video.

Brad Hogg names his ideal RCB XI; Omits Kyle Jamieson

The 50-year-old has dropped Kyle Jamieson, who was bought for INR 15 crore in the auction, from his ideal RCB XI. Brad Hogg has picked AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Daniel Christian, and Kane Richardson as his 4 overseas players. He wishes to see young Indian batsman Mohammed Azharuddeen in the finisher’s role, with all-rounder Daniel Christian.

RCB commences their campaign in the season opener against defending champions, Mumbai Indians, in Chennai.

“You have got AB de Villiers coming in at no. 3 and then Glenn Maxwell to finish off the innings at no. 4. I will have Dan Christian coming in at no. 5, another power-hitter, and Mohammed Azharuddeen. I think that particular six would be dominant in this year’s IPL,” the former chinaman added.

Brad Hogg’s RCB XI:

Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli (c), AB de Villiers (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Daniel Christian, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Kane Richardson, and Yuzvendra Chahal.

Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah Reflects On His IPL Debut That Took Place Eight Years Ago On This Day