Rajat Patidar has emerged as one of the biggest talking points of IPL 2026 after leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru into the final with a dominant victory over Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1. Rajat Patidar produced a sensational unbeaten 93 off just 33 balls as RCB posted 254/5 before bowling out Gujarat Titans for 162. Rajat Patidar has now entered discussions surrounding India’s future T20I captaincy options.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru finished the league stage with nine wins in 14 matches and continued their impressive form in the playoffs. Rajat Patidar has earned praise for his calm leadership, tactical decisions, and consistent batting performances throughout IPL 2026. Rajat Patidar previously guided RCB to their maiden IPL title in 2025 and now stands on the verge of another historic achievement.

Rajat Patidar’s rise has intensified debates involving other captaincy contenders like Shreyas Iyer and Sanju Samson. While both players enjoyed success in previous seasons, Rajat Patidar has delivered stronger results recently with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Rajat Patidar has also impressed with his ability to handle pressure in crucial knockout matches.

Former India batter Ambati Rayudu strongly backed Rajat Patidar for India’s T20 setup and even supported him as a future T20I captain. Rajat Patidar has yet to make his T20I debut for India despite already playing three Tests and one ODI.

Rajat Patidar joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2022 as an injury replacement before becoming captain in 2025. Under his leadership, the franchise transformed its reputation after years of disappointment in IPL finals. Rajat Patidar has played a key role alongside Virat Kohli in changing the fortunes of the franchise.

If Royal Challengers Bengaluru secure another IPL title, Rajat Patidar’s case for a permanent place in India’s T20 squad could become even stronger ahead of future international assignments.