The talented Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batsman Devdutt Padikkal is almost certain to miss the season opener against Mumbai Indians. RCB will be facing the 5-time IPL champions on April 9 in Chennai. Yesterday RCB confirmed that Padikkal was tested COVID-19 positive on April 22 and since then has been in isolation. Now according to a report, Padikkal is doubtful for the first two matches which is a big blow to the franchise.

RCB Opener Devdutt Padikkal to miss first two matches of IPL 2021: Reports 

The 20-year-old Padikkal made his IPL debut last season and was the highest run-scorer for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Now the Virat Kohli led side is likely to be without the services of Padikkal for the match against MI and Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 14. Yesterday the franchise also published that Padikkal is still at his residence in Bengaluru, and the medical team is constantly in touch with him reported by The Times of India (TOI).

“He has been in mandatory quarantine at his residence in Bengaluru since then. He will be fit to join the RCB bio-bubble once his RT-PCR tests are negative. RCB Medical team is in touch with Devdutt ensuring his safety and well-being. Devdutt is feeling well and we can’t wait to have him join the squad for the IPL season ahead,” the franchise said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Padikkal was all set to open alongside captain Virat Kohli from the first match of IPL 2021. Now with him doubtful for at least the first two matches, RCB will now have to find a new opening combination. Promptly Mohammad Azharuddeen or Finn Allen are likely to partner Kohli at the top in the first two matches of the franchise.

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