Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar opened up about his side’s mentality ahead of the high-pressure Qualifier 1 clash against Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2026.
The defending champions will take on GT on Tuesday night with a direct spot in the IPL 2026 final at stake.
Both teams won one match each against each other during the league stage this season, making the upcoming knockout clash one of the most anticipated contests of the playoffs.
Rajat Patidar reveals RCB’s attacking mindset ahead of Qualifier 1
Speaking ahead of the clash, Patidar stressed the importance of staying calm under pressure and executing plans properly in knockout cricket.
"Both teams have done really well throughout the season. On the given day, whichever team executes their plans better, plays better cricket and stays calmer under pressure, I think that team will win the match."
Patidar admitted that handling pressure correctly would be crucial in such a massive encounter.
"It is a big stage, Qualifier 1. We must hold our nerves and be confident in whatever we are doing."
The RCB skipper also highlighted bowling as the team’s biggest strength this season and revealed the aggressive mindset with which the team plans to approach the game.
"Our strength is bowling, and the way we bowl in the power play will be very crucial."
Patidar made it clear that RCB are not looking to play defensive cricket in the playoffs.
"Everyone in the team knows that we are not here to defend, we are here with the mindset of attacking and we will look for early wickets."
He also praised the performances of bowlers like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood and Rasikh Salam for consistently delivering during the powerplay.
Rajat Patidar praises teammates and opens up on captaincy journey
Patidar reserved special praise for Venkatesh Iyer, who impressed in recent matches against Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
The RCB captain applauded Venkatesh’s flexibility and attitude throughout the season.
"I know Venky from childhood, and the way he presents himself is extraordinary. The way he plays in any given situation and his flexibility in the batting order, I really like his attitude."
Patidar further revealed that the experienced players and support staff have played a massive role in helping him settle into leadership responsibilities.
"To be honest, I do not need to do so much extra. Our management, coaching staff and senior players have a lot of experience, and that is helping me a lot as a leader."
He specifically mentioned names like Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma, Hazlewood and Tim David for constantly sharing ideas and helping him during matches.
Patidar also underlined the importance of Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s experience inside the dressing room and the impact he has on younger bowlers.
"I always say that Bhuvi is an experienced bowler and he knows his strengths. The way he talks to the junior players, especially the bowlers, makes his presence in the team very important."
In eight matches, the two sides have played against each other in the IPL and have won four games each.