Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have received a huge boost ahead of their final league-stage match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), with regular captain Rajat Patidar expected to return to the playing XI.
Patidar had missed RCB’s previous game against Punjab Kings after the franchise decided not to take any risks regarding his fitness. In his absence, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma led the side brilliantly as RCB secured a crucial victory to confirm their playoff spot with 18 points.
Now, ahead of the Hyderabad clash, there has been a major update on Patidar’s recovery.
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Jitesh Sharma and Mo Bobat confirm Rajat Patidar’s likely return
Speaking during the toss in the previous match, stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma revealed that Patidar is recovering well and is expected to return for the upcoming game against SRH.
“Rajat is doing fantastic and we should see him in Hyderabad,” Jitesh said.
RCB’s Director of Cricket Mo Bobat also confirmed that the franchise was simply being cautious with Patidar and wanted to give him enough time to recover fully before the playoffs.
According to Bobat, the RCB skipper is now fit, training regularly and ready to return to action.
Rajat Patidar’s brilliant IPL 2026 season
Patidar has been one of RCB’s standout performers in IPL 2026 and has played a key role in the team’s successful campaign under his leadership.
The right-handed batter has scored 326 runs in 10 innings this season at a stunning strike rate of nearly 195. He has also smashed three half-centuries while consistently providing quick starts and stability in the middle order.
His aggressive batting approach and calm captaincy have played a huge role in helping RCB secure qualification for the playoffs.
With the top-two race still open, Patidar’s return could be a massive advantage for Bengaluru ahead of the high-voltage clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 22.
RCB currently sit at the top of the IPL 2026 points table with 18 points and will be aiming to finish inside the top two to secure the Qualifier 1 advantage.