In what comes as pleasing news for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) unit ahead of their opening game of IPL 14 against Mumbai Indians on Friday, opener Devdutt Padikkal has joined the team after returning negative for coronavirus.

"We are pleased to inform that Royal Challengers Bangalore, left-handed batsman Devdutt Paddikal, has joined the team on 7th April 2021 with negative reports for COVID-19 as per BCCI protocols. RCB medical team was in constant touch with Devdutt to ensure his safety and well-being," read a press statement by the RCB Management on Wednesday. Padikkal thanked fans and supporters for their wishes and said he is 'completely fine' and can't wait to join the side again.