Did you know Mayank Agarwal last played for RCB in 2013?

Not many are aware that Mayank Agarwal, now a seasoned campaigner, began his IPL journey as a 20-year-old with his home franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Donning the red and gold once again, Mayank featured in the playing XI against Sunrisers Hyderabad during their IPL 2025 encounter on Friday, marking a long-awaited homecoming for the Karnataka batter.

Having made his IPL debut with RCB in 2011, Mayank has since represented several franchises including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, Rising Pune Supergiants, and Punjab Kings. Over the years, he also established himself in Indian domestic cricket and donned the national jersey in all formats. Now, after a 12-year absence, he returned to where it all began, filling in for Devdutt Padikkal, who was ruled out of the season due to injury.

Mayank was officially included in the playing XI against SRH, marking his first appearance for RCB since the 2013 IPL season. In that edition, he featured in five matches, scoring 67 runs at an average of 13.40. Prior to the 2025 season, he had completed three campaigns with RCB, but hadn’t managed to leave a significant mark.

Now back in familiar colors, Agarwal will be eager to make the most of this second stint. Given his recent form in domestic competitions, RCB will be hoping he can transfer that momentum into the IPL and offer stability and aggression at the top of the order. In Padikkal’s absence, who performed commendably at No. 3, Agarwal is expected to bring his experience and attacking flair to that role.

Across his IPL career, Mayank has played 128 matches, amassing 2,661 runs at an average of 22.74 and a strike rate of 133.05. His record includes one century and 13 half-centuries, reflecting his ability to anchor innings or accelerate when needed.

As for RCB, they’ve already secured a spot in the playoffs, sitting comfortably with 17 points from 12 matches. A win in their upcoming games could all but guarantee them a top-two finish, giving them a significant advantage heading into the knockout stage.

Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad have already bowed out of the playoff race. However, they’ll be looking to end their campaign on a high note by playing party spoilers at the Ekana Cricket Stadium.

This article first appeared on Mid Day