Last Updated: May 22, 2026 04:19 PM
Rajat Patidar got bonked on the helmet during that Kolkata match. Pretty hard hit actually. So RCB kept him out of the Punjab game just to be safe. You know how these things go with head injuries. Better to miss one match than risk something serious.
He stayed back in Dharamsala. The rest of the team went to Punjab without him. Jitesh Sharma captained instead which was fine. But everyone knew Rajat would be back soon. The medical guys checked him out properly. Scans came back clear apparently.
Mo Bobat said he’s good to go now. So Rajat will lead RCB again today. The team is stronger with him in the lineup honestly. He’s their main guy in the middle order.
SRH vs RCB Final League Match
This is RCB’s last game in the league stage. They’re going to Hyderabad to play SRH today. The match is at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium. It starts at 7.30 PM. Both teams are already qualified for the playoffs actually. So it’s not like anyone is desperately fighting for survival here.
This match is more about preparation than absolute necessity. The team can test different things before the playoffs. They can give young players chances. Or rest key players if needed. Either way, it’s a good opportunity to fine-tune things.
Rajat Patidar’s Performance This Season
Patidar has been scoring well this IPL. He’s got around 337 runs in 11 matches. That’s pretty good going honestly. His average is 33.70. The strike rate is 190+.
He’s hit 3 fifties already which is solid. Not some crazy number but consistent. When Patidar plays well, RCB usually wins. That’s just how it works. He’s reliable with the bat. You can trust him to deliver most of the time.
When he didn’t play against Punjab, Venkatesh Iyer came in. The guy played really nicely actually. Scored 73 runs off 40 balls. Didn’t lose the match. So the team had options. But Patidar is still the first choice obviously.
How Patidar Strengthens RCB’s Lineup
Getting Rajat Patidar back changes things for RCB’s middle order. His experience matters in playoff cricket. He brings leadership on the field. The team feels more complete with him around.
Patidar’s return means better batting depth for RCB. Experienced players can focus better on their roles. Young players learned from watching Iyer play well. Now everyone will get proper opportunities to shine.
RCB wants to maintain its winning momentum heading into the playoffs. They’re the strong favorites for the title this year. Having a fit captain like Patidar helps them stay sharp. Today’s match is perfect practice before the playoffs start.
