RCB Predicted XI vs SRH: Will Rajat Patidar Return for IPL 2026 Match 67?

The Battle for the Top Two

The IPL 2026 season has been nothing short of a spectacle, and as we reach the final stages of the league phase, the intensity is palpable. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have both confirmed their tickets to the playoffs, but there is still plenty to play for. As they lock horns in Match 67 in Hyderabad, the primary goal for both franchises will be securing a coveted top-two finish, which provides a significant strategic advantage in the knockout rounds.

Rajat Patidar Returns to Lead the Charge

The biggest question leading into this high-stakes encounter is the availability of RCB captain Rajat Patidar. After missing the previous match against the Punjab Kings as a concussion precaution, the RCB camp has received positive news. Deputy skipper Jitesh Sharma has confirmed that Patidar is expected to return to the RCB Playing XI for this game. His return is timely, especially given Hyderabad’s tendency to rely on spin-heavy attacks at home, where Patidar’s expertise against spinners could prove to be the difference-maker.

The RCB Top Order Strategy

The RCB batting lineup has been firing on all cylinders, even in the absence of key players. Jacob Bethell is expected to retain his spot at the top, potentially getting one final opportunity to prove his worth before English teammate Phil Salt returns for the playoffs. Anchoring the innings, as always, is the legendary Virat Kohli. Having surpassed 500 runs this season with a career-best strike rate, Kohli is entering his favorite territory: the high-pressure environment of the business end of the tournament. Devdutt Padikkal rounds out the top order, looking to establish himself with a significant, match-winning contribution.

Middle Order and All-round Depth

Beyond Patidar, the middle order boasts significant power and versatility. Tim David continues to be a crucial asset, particularly against spin, and he will be eager to test his mettle against the bowling unit led by his Australian international captain, Pat Cummins. Jitesh Sharma, despite a challenging season, retains the full backing of the RCB management, both for his glovework and his leadership capabilities displayed in the previous outing. Romario Shepherd and Krunal Pandya provide the team with excellent balance. Shepherd’s ability to use the long boundaries at Uppal with his pace, combined with his finishing prowess, makes him vital, while Krunal’s left-arm spin offers a necessary tactical variation against the SRH batting lineup.

The Bowling Attack

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been the heartbeat of the RCB bowling attack throughout IPL 2026. Playing at his former home ground, he will be looking to maintain his rhythm and strike early. He is supported by the experienced Josh Hazlewood; while Hazlewood has conceded runs recently, the tandem performance of these two pacers remains the cornerstone of RCB’s defensive strategy. Rounding out the bowling is the young leg-spinner Suyash Sharma, who is expected to pose a significant threat during the middle overs.

Predicted RCB Playing XI vs SRH

Based on current form and team strategy, here is the strongest look for Bengaluru:

• Jacob Bethell
• Virat Kohli
• Devdutt Padikkal
• Rajat Patidar (c)
• Tim David
• Jitesh Sharma (wk)
• Romario Shepherd
• Krunal Pandya
• Bhuvneshwar Kumar
• Josh Hazlewood
• Suyash Sharma

Impact Player Options: Rasikh Salam, who delivered a brilliant three-wicket haul in the previous game, remains the primary candidate as the Impact Player, especially if RCB bowls second. Other options include Venkatesh Iyer, Jordan Cox, Kanishk Chouhan, and Swapnil Singh, providing the team with plenty of tactical flexibility as they aim to end the league stage on a high note.