Rajat Patidar’s Injury and RCB Captaincy Dilemma
Rajat Patidar’s recent injury during an India A match has put the Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captaincy for IPL 2026 in a state of uncertainty. His absence, expected to last at least four months, has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about who could take the reins if he cannot return for the upcoming season.
Leading Candidates for RCB Captaincy
In light of Patidar’s injury, several players standout as potential candidates for the position of RCB captain:
1. Jitesh Sharma
Jitesh Sharma emerges as the top contender for the RCB captaincy during Patidar's absence. Previously, he filled in for Patidar in two matches, leading to one win and one loss. His tactical thinking and experience as the India A captain provide him with the skill set necessary for leadership.
2. Krunal Pandya
Krunal Pandya is another strong option. He is well-known for his extensive leadership experience as the captain of Baroda and previously led the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. His familiarity with T20 cricket dynamics makes him a prime candidate for the captaincy role, should Patidar remain sidelined for the entire season.
3. Virat Kohli
Despite his reluctance to return as captain since stepping down in 2021, Virat Kohli may still be considered. Having captained RCB 143 times and achieving a win percentage of 48.56%, his experience is undeniable. Kohli's potential return, motivated by the team's needs, could reignite his captaining spark despite having other suitable candidates.
Summary of Candidates
| Player | Matches Captained | Win Percentage |
|---|
| Jitesh Sharma | 2 | 50% |
| Krunal Pandya | Multiple | N/A |
| Virat Kohli | 143 | 48.56% |
Conclusion: RCB's Leadership Future
As the RCB management weighs its options for the captaincy in IPL 2026, the leadership qualities of Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, and Virat Kohli will likely play a critical role in determining who steps up to guide the team. While enthusiasm and experience will be crucial, the decision will ultimately hinge on Patidar’s recovery timeline.