Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Play Without Rajat Patidar as Jitesh Sharma Takes Over Captaincy
Not Rajat Patidar. RCB To Play Under New Captain In IPL 2026 Match vs PBKS: Report

Image: Ndtv
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2026 without regular captain Rajat Patidar, who is absent due to injury. Wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma will lead the team, aiming to secure a playoff spot after recent victories. Patidar has been a key player, scoring 326 runs this season.
- 01Rajat Patidar has scored 326 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of 195 this season.
- 02Jitesh Sharma previously captained RCB during IPL 2025 playoffs, stepping in for Patidar.
- 03RCB is currently at the top of the points table and needs a win against PBKS to confirm their playoff spot.
- 04Phil Salt remains unavailable due to injury, leading Jacob Bethell to open alongside Virat Kohli.
- 05Jitesh Sharma has struggled this season with only 90 runs and has fallen to pacers multiple times.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In a significant development for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), regular captain Rajat Patidar will not participate in their IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the HPCA Stadium. Wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma will step in as captain for this crucial match, which is a rematch of the 2025 IPL final where RCB triumphed over PBKS for their first title. Patidar's absence is notable as he has been a standout performer this season, scoring 326 runs in 10 innings at a remarkable strike rate of 195, including three half-centuries. His leadership and batting prowess will be missed, especially in the middle order. RCB currently leads the points table and a victory against PBKS will secure their playoff berth. Jitesh Sharma, who has had a challenging season with only 90 runs so far, will need to find his form as captain. The team also continues to miss opener Phil Salt due to a finger injury, which means Jacob Bethell will partner with star batter Virat Kohli at the top of the order. This match is pivotal for RCB as they aim to maintain their winning streak and solidify their playoff position.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
RCB's playoff chances are on the line, and Jitesh Sharma's performance as captain could influence the team's success in the upcoming matches.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you think Jitesh Sharma can lead RCB to victory in this match?
Connecting to poll...
More about Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.







