Yes, Mayank Agarwal is playing in IPL 2025 as a replacement player for Devdutt Padikkal in Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Although he went unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction, RCB signed him later for ₹1 crore after Padikkal was ruled out due to injury
Mayank Anurag Agarwal, born on 16 February 1991 in Bangalore, Karnataka, is a prominent Indian cricketer known for his elegant right-handed opening batting style. He currently captains Karnataka across all formats in domestic cricket and has made significant contributions to Indian cricket, especially in Test matches.
Early Career and Domestic Success
Mayank first gained attention with his performances in the Under-19 Cooch Behar Trophy (2008-09) and the 2010 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, where he was India’s leading run-scorer. His breakthrough came in 2017 when he scored a maiden triple century for Karnataka and emerged as the highest run-scorer in the 2017-18 Ranji Trophy season. He also excelled in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, amassing 723 runs in eight matches in 2017-18, earning the Madhavrao Scindia award for his outstanding domestic season.
International Career
Mayank made his Test debut for India on 26 December 2018 against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His debut innings of 76 was the highest by an Indian on Australian soil at the time. He has played 21 Test matches, scoring 1,488 runs at an average of 41.33, including four centuries and six fifties.
IPL Career and Recent Developments
Mayank Agarwal has been a notable figure in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since his debut in 2011. Over his IPL career, he has played 127 matches with a strike rate of 133.05, showcasing his ability to influence games significantly. He has represented multiple franchises including Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Delhi Capitals (DC), Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS), Punjab Kings (PBKS)-where he also served as captain-and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
In the 2023 IPL auction, Mayank was bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 8.5 Crore. However, in the IPL 2025 auction, he went unsold, which was a surprising development given his experience and domestic form. Despite this setback, he continued to perform exceptionally well in domestic cricket, scoring 651 runs in 10 matches in the 2024-25 Vijay Hazare Trophy, including four centuries and a half-century, leading Karnataka to the title.
Subsequently, Mayank returned to the IPL arena in 2025 as a replacement player for Devdutt Padikkal at Royal Challengers Bangalore, marking a homecoming to the franchise where he began his IPL journey.
Playing Style and Strengths
Mayank is known for his technically sound and elegant batting, especially as an opener. He combines classical stroke play with an aggressive mindset, making him a valuable asset in both Test and limited-overs formats. His fitness and professionalism have been praised by coaches and peers alike, contributing to his consistent performances.
Summary
- Right-handed opening batsman from Karnataka, born in 1991.
- Captains Karnataka in domestic cricket.
- Made Test debut in 2018; has 4 Test centuries.
- IPL career includes stints with RCB, DC, RPS, PBKS (captain), SRH.
- Bought by SRH in 2023 IPL auction; went unsold in 2025 auction.
- Returned to IPL 2025 playing for RCB as a replacement.
- Stellar domestic form with 651 runs in Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25.
- Known for elegant technique, fitness, and leadership qualities.
Mayank Agarwal remains a significant figure in Indian cricket, balancing his domestic dominance with impactful performances on the international stage and continuing to contribute to the IPL despite recent challenges.
