Rajat Patidar Shines in IPL 2026 Qualifier, Earns Praise from Suresh Raina

In a thrilling IPL 2026 Qualifier 1, Rajat Patidar's explosive 93 runs led RCB to a 92-run victory over Gujarat Titans. Suresh Raina praised Patidar's performance, calling it a 'captain's knock under pressure' and hinted at a possible national call-up for the talented player. With RCB now heading to the finals, the cricketing world is eager to see if they can defend their title successfully.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 27, 2026, 17:56 IST

Raina Applauds Patidar's Stellar Performance

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has lauded Rajat Patidar following the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain's outstanding display against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 held in Dharamsala on Tuesday.

The defending champions secured their place in the IPL final for the fifth time with a decisive 92-run victory over Gujarat. RCB set a formidable target of 254 runs for 5 wickets, showcasing an impressive performance that saw numerous records broken throughout the match.

A Captain's Performance Under Pressure

Rajat Patidar led the charge with an explosive 93 runs off just 33 balls, allowing RCB to dominate the middle overs and seize control of the match. In an interview with JioStar, Raina described Patidar's innings as a "captain's knock under pressure," drawing parallels to some of his own remarkable performances in the league while emphasizing Patidar's shot selection and composure. "Rajat Patidar took on the Gujarat Titans like a storm, playing remarkable shots all around the ground," Raina remarked.

Reflecting on Patidar's previous achievements, Raina noted that while the player's century in the 2022 playoffs against Lucknow Super Giants was memorable, this latest performance stood out for its maturity and timing. "I recall his hundred against LSG in 2022, which was special, but this innings was different. The timing, confidence, and the way he managed the bowlers were exceptional," he stated.

Highlighting Exceptional Skill

Raina also highlighted one of Patidar's sixes as a remarkable display of skill. "The six he hit over covers in this match is among the best I have witnessed in IPL history. It wasn't merely about power; it was pure skill. He read the length early, maintained his balance, and sent it soaring," Raina commented.

National Call-up on the Horizon

Commending Patidar's current form, the former Indian player suggested that his consistent performances could soon lead to a national call-up for T20 internationals. "He is in fantastic form, and I believe an India call-up for Rajat Patidar in T20Is is imminent. If he continues to play like this, the selectors will have no choice but to notice him," Raina added.

RCB Aims to Defend Their Title

RCB is set to head to Ahmedabad for the IPL 2026 Final on May 31, aiming to become only the third team in IPL history to successfully defend their title and secure the trophy for a second consecutive season.