Rajat Patidar Returns to Nets as RCB Prepares for KKR Clash

Rajat Patidar's Comeback Boosts RCB Ahead of KKR Match

Rajat Patidar, the captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), was spotted practicing at the nets, bringing relief to fans as the team gears up to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The IPL 2025 season, which had been on hold, is set to resume on Saturday, May 7.

The iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru will host this exciting matchup. Patidar had been recovering from a finger injury and was expected to miss RCB's game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the MCA Stadium in Gahunje on Friday, May 6, with Jitesh Sharma stepping in as captain.

Fortunately, the mid-season break seems to have worked wonders for Patidar, who has shown signs of regaining his form. This is crucial for RCB, as they are just one win away from securing a playoff spot. During an open-net session in Bengaluru, Patidar demonstrated his batting prowess, suggesting he is close to returning to full fitness.

The split is off. Just a few tapes, and Rajat Patidar is batting at the RCB nets. pic.twitter.com/NsWMr1Jtfl

— Shashank Kishore (@captainshanky) May 15, 2025

Primarily batting at the No. 4 position, Patidar is a crucial component of RCB's batting order. He started the season strong with two half-centuries but has struggled to maintain that momentum. The break appears to have come at an opportune moment, allowing him to reset and potentially regain his top form.

So far this season, Patidar has accumulated 239 runs in 11 matches, averaging 23.90 with a strike rate of 140.58. RCB, having won eight out of their 11 matches, is not only aiming for a playoff berth but also a top-two finish.

With three matches remaining, the team will be counting on Patidar to continue scoring runs, as his performance will be vital in the crucial stages of the tournament.