Devdutt Padikkal shines, Shahbaz Ahmed shows promise: Talking points from DC vs RCB

Sports, as we know, resembles a roller coaster. We don't generally encounter the high points without enduring a few defeats on the path. We all tend to develop from the mistakes. It wasn't the definitive way we would have desired to finish the league stage, but there were plenty of positives to takeaway. A big week lies ahead. Let's take a look at the talking points from our last league fixture. A big week lies ahead.

Devdutt Padikkal continues his dream run 

Lofted cover drives, sizzling cuts, and the definitive flicks - you name any, he has it all. One just can't afford to leave the seat when Devdutt Padikkal takes strike. He once again showed his unparalleled capabilities with the bat, scoring his fifth half-century of the tournament against a fierce Delhi Capitals bowling attack. With that imposing knock, he broke the record of most half-centuries by an uncapped player in his debut season. The feat was previously held by Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer. 

During his 41-ball stay at the crease, DDP struck five boundaries and laid down the foundation for the incoming batters to capitalise on. The southpaw, with 472 runs to his name, has made a resounding impact this tournament. One thing that has always stood about his batting is his ability to manipulate the field. His batting display so far urges one to believe he's destined for greater success. 

Shahbaz Ahmed shows promise 

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Season after season, the Indian Premier League dishes out inspiring stories of youngsters who have risen like a Phoenix from the ashes. Shahbaz Ahmed illustrated a glimpse of his immense character. He was successful in tightening the noose around the batsman in the middle overs. The 25-year-old claimed his maiden IPL wicket, snaring a well-set Shikhar Dhawan in the 13th over. Very few can forget Shahbaz's guileful all-round performances in Ranji Trophy. He also admitted that he gained tremendous confidence by rubbing his shoulders with stalwarts in the pre-season training camp, which has helped him grow leaps and bounds. "The practice camp started before IPL has helped me. And the first wicket in IPL that too of Shikhar Dhawan is a special feeling,"  he was quoted as saying at the press conference. 

The talented all-rounder can make a big impact and is surely one to watch out for in the upcoming fixtures.