Patidar on RCB’s encore: ‘We didn’t just play but we dominated’

A Birthday Celebration to Remember

In the early hours of Monday in Ahmedabad, Rajat Patidar sat in the press conference room with the IPL trophy by his side, his face lit by a rare, broad smile. For a cricketer who typically maintains a stoic exterior, the moment was profound. As he celebrated his 33rd birthday, the trophy served as the ultimate gift, marking the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) second consecutive IPL title. Patidar, now an established leader, emphasized that while the team would certainly celebrate, his focus had already shifted toward a historic ‘three-in-a-row’ campaign.

The Philosophy of Dominance

When asked to compare the 2025 and 2026 title runs, Patidar noted a distinct shift in the team’s aura. Patidar on RCB’s encore: ‘We didn’t just play but we dominated’ remains the defining sentiment of his assessment. While the first title was achieved under significant pressure, the second felt like the result of an inevitable, well-oiled machine. Patidar noted that the team’s group stage performance was a testament to their preparation, confidence, and internal belief. As a captain, he has embraced a calm, observant approach, relying heavily on the backing of the management and his peers to steer the side through high-stakes situations.

Technical Evolution and Leadership

Patidar’s individual performance was a cornerstone of RCB’s success, as he amassed 501 runs at a staggering strike rate of 192.69—his best return since his debut. This success was no accident; it was the result of a rigorous off-season training block with veteran Dinesh Karthik. The focus was on technical adjustments, specifically his trigger movements and maintaining clarity at the crease. Beyond his batting, Patidar credited Faf du Plessis for shaping his captaincy style, noting the former captain’s body language and composure under pressure as significant inspirations.

The Silent Architect of Success

While the spotlight often falls on star performers, Patidar was quick to redirect credit toward the coaching staff. He highlighted the influence of bowling coach Omkar Salvi, who has been instrumental in the development of the team’s younger bowling talent. Salvi’s approach, characterized by one-on-one sessions away from the glare of meeting rooms, has proven vital for bowlers like Rasikh Salam, who enjoyed a breakout season with 19 wickets. Furthermore, Patidar hailed head coach Andy Flower as the finest he has worked under, praising his unique ability to make every player—from match-winners to bench-warmers—feel valued and integral to the collective cause.

A Shift in Culture

The transformation of the RCB franchise, according to Patidar, lies deep within the team’s culture. He noted that the mindset shift since 2021 has been monumental. The coaching staff has fostered an environment of equality where new players are integrated seamlessly, ensuring that the team functions as a cohesive unit rather than a collection of individuals. This unity was evident throughout the season and was the primary driver behind their ability to handle the scrutiny of defending a title.

A Moment of Reflection

Despite the euphoria of the triumph, the mood shifted when Patidar addressed the tragedy that marred last year’s celebrations, when 11 fans tragically lost their lives in a stampede near the Chinnaswamy Stadium. In a display of deep sincerity, Patidar paused to honor those lost, stating that he views the fans as family members. He dedicated the 2026 trophy to those individuals, reminding everyone that while sports provide immense joy, the connection between the team and its supporters is rooted in something much deeper than just the game itself.

As RCB looks toward the future, the foundation laid by Patidar and his team seems stronger than ever. With a blend of technical mastery, tactical acumen, and a culture of mutual respect, the franchise has firmly established itself as the modern standard-bearer of the IPL.