‘We Play to Dominate but Stay Flexible’: Rajat Patidar Highlights RCB’s Adaptability in Strong IPL 2026 Title Defence Push

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have started their title defence in strong form under new captain Rajat Patidar. The team has collected 8 points from six games this season. Patidar credits the run to clear intent, flexible plans, and sharp awareness in changing match situations.

Patidar said the batting group wants to play with dominance but remain flexible. He stressed that the team does not want rigid plans. He said the players aim to read each situation, adapt quickly, and keep intent high across all phases of the innings.

The captain has been in strong touch this season. Patidar has scored 230 runs in six games at a strike rate of 212.96. He has hit 22 sixes, which is currently the second-highest tally in the competition, reflecting his high-risk, high-impact role.

Mental shift drives batting evolution

Patidar said his biggest change as a batter started in the mind. He spoke about how he now sees the game, how he sees himself in situations, and how his urge to dominate bowlers began from that mental shift rather than technique.

After gaining mental clarity, Patidar worked on specific trigger movements. He discussed those changes with Dinesh Karthik. He said that once he was convinced, he refused to hold back in matches. That clarity, he added, helped him execute attacking shots better.

Instinctive aggression and partnership communication

On RCB’s aggressive template, Patidar said there is no fixed plan for how he must play. If he feels he can dominate a bowler, he attacks. He highlighted clear communication in partnerships, where the set batter takes responsibility, even without rotating strike.

Patidar described himself as a bowling-focused captain in T20 cricket. He said bowlers are often under pressure, so he tries to keep them in a good space and avoids strong reactions. He added that he has learnt from observing Virat bhai, especially staying present.

Handling pressure, fans’ emotions and captaincy style

Patidar said last year’s title win felt bigger once he saw the fans’ emotions. He recalled pressure in the final’s last over, when things could still go wrong. He said he stays calm, remains true to his quiet nature, and values a relaxed dressing room.

Patidar wants every player, senior or new, to feel important. He said he ignores selection talk and outside noise, focusing only on the present. With every team targeting the champions, he stressed sticking to their process and controlling what they can in each game.