“Yes, of course”: Rajat Patidar replacing Suryakumar Yadav in Team India gets ap – Rajat Patidar’s IPL Heroics Spark Calls for T20I Call-up
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The Rise of Rajat Patidar: A New Force in Indian Cricket
The landscape of Indian T20 cricket is constantly evolving, but few stories in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) have been as compelling as that of Rajat Patidar. As the skipper of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Patidar has transformed from a reliable middle-order batter into a formidable leader and a destructive force, culminating in a breathtaking performance during Qualifier 1 against the Gujarat Titans.
His 93 runs off just 33 balls was not merely a display of power-hitting; it was a masterclass in situational awareness. Facing one of the most disciplined bowling attacks in the tournament, Patidar dismantled the opposition with five boundaries and nine towering sixes. This innings served as the catalyst for RCB’s charge into their second consecutive IPL final, a feat that cements the franchise’s status among the league’s elite, placing them alongside giants like Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.
The Case for National Selection
Patidar’s consistent excellence has inevitably led to discussions about his future on the international stage. With a new T20 World Cup cycle on the horizon, the pressure on selectors to identify the most in-form players is immense. Former Indian cricketers Aakash Chopra and Ambati Rayudu have been vocal in their support, suggesting that a call-up for the RCB captain is not just a possibility, but a necessity.
Aakash Chopra recently took to social media to emphasize that Patidar’s current form is too good to ignore for the national side. Meanwhile, Ambati Rayudu, speaking on expert panels, went a step further. Rayudu identified Patidar as a cornerstone around which a new T20 squad could be built. When pressed on whether the RCB star could step into the shoes of Suryakumar Yadav—who has faced a challenging and inconsistent IPL 2026 season—Rayudu’s response was definitive: ‘Yes, of course.’
Comparing Form and Impact
The debate surrounding Suryakumar Yadav’s position in the Indian team has gained momentum due to his recent struggles. While Suryakumar remains a world-class talent, his inability to maintain his signature dominance throughout the 2026 IPL has left a void in the middle order. In contrast, Patidar has displayed a remarkable ability to anchor an innings before shifting gears, a trait that is invaluable in the high-pressure environment of international T20 cricket.
Furthermore, Patidar’s leadership qualities have added a new dimension to his profile. By leading RCB to back-to-back finals, he has proven his ability to handle the mental rigors of professional sport. This leadership experience, combined with his high-strike-rate batting, makes him a unique candidate for the Indian selectors to consider.
Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for Team India?
It is important to note that the selectors are currently facing a wealth of options. Shreyas Iyer, another player who has demonstrated impressive maturity and leadership, is also in the frame. The competition for spots in the middle order is fiercer than ever, ensuring that only those who can perform consistently under the spotlight will secure their place.
As the IPL 2026 season draws to a close, the focus shifts toward how the BCCI will balance the need for established stars with the necessity of rewarding emerging talent. Rajat Patidar has done everything asked of him: he has scored runs, he has won matches, and he has led from the front. Whether or not he replaces a seasoned campaigner like Suryakumar Yadav remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the conversation has officially begun, and Patidar has firmly etched his name into the minds of those who matter.
The journey from a franchise player to a potential international match-winner is long, but if the 2026 season is any indication, Rajat Patidar is more than ready for the challenge. Indian cricket fans will be watching with anticipation as the selectors finalize their plans for the upcoming international fixtures.
