RCB's Rajat Patidar Shifts Focus from Last Season's Glory to New Challenges
Bengaluru's IPL Aspirations
Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar, the captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), emphasized that the team has moved on from the excitement of their IPL victory last season. Their current focus is on fulfilling all necessary criteria to secure another championship this year.
RCB kicked off their IPL 2026 campaign with an impressive six-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, Patidar clarified that they are not approaching this season as a title defense.
"We are not here with the mindset that we have to defend anything; what we did in 2025 has passed. We are here with the mindset that in 2026 we have to tick all the boxes and that will help us win the trophy this year," Patidar stated during the post-match press conference.
In this regard, RCB successfully checked off three significant boxes, thanks to outstanding performances from Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, and Jacob Duffy, which were crucial for the team's victory.
Patidar praised Kohli, saying, "Virat Kohli is a master at chasing, and I have always admired his batting. Watching him from the dugout, the way he played and assessed the situation was impressive as always."
He added, "I feel like he is at his peak. I have no words to describe his innings. He is my idol, and the energy and eagerness he shows in practice are inspiring. I learn a lot just by observing him in the nets."
Regarding pacer Duffy, who claimed three wickets to dismantle SRH's top order, Patidar expressed confidence in the Kiwi bowler's abilities, stating, "Jacob Duffy is a specialist T20 bowler, and we have a lot of faith in him. His skill delivery was tremendous."
Remembering Lost Fans
The match commenced with a moment of silence to honor the 11 fans who tragically lost their lives in a stampede near the stadium last year.
Patidar reflected on the emotional impact of missing family members, saying, "Of course, you feel bad when you miss your family member. Everyone who has supported us over the years feels like family, and we miss them deeply."
Despite this, Patidar expressed joy at returning to Chinnaswamy Stadium, stating, "Absolutely! Coming to Chinnaswamy for the season opener and playing in front of our 12th man army was exhilarating and truly enjoyable."