Bengaluru: In a surprising tactical move, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) rested regular skipper Rajat Patidar for their crucial IPL clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), handing the captaincy to wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma. The decision came as Patidar, recovering from a hand injury sustained earlier in the season, was named as an Impact Substitute to preserve him for the playoffs.
Making his captaincy debut for RCB, Sharma revealed at the toss that the team opted to bowl first, aiming to exploit early moisture on the pitch. “We want to finish the league stage on top and carry this momentum into the playoffs,” he said. “The team culture is strong, and we’re focused on lifting the trophy.”
Mayank Agarwal’s Emotional Comeback
The match also marked a sentimental return for Mayank Agarwal, who last played for RCB in 2013. After going unsold in the IPL 2025 mega-auction, the 34-year-old was signed as a replacement for the injured Devdutt Padikkal. Agarwal’s inclusion adds experience to RCB’s top order alongside Virat Kohli and Philip Salt.
SRH’s Chase in Focus
With RCB fielding a revamped XI, SRH captain Aiden Markram expressed confidence in his team’s batting depth. “We’ve prepared well, and the pitch looks good for batting,” he said. The Hyderabad side, fighting for a playoff berth, will rely on their explosive lineup to challenge RCB’s bowling attack, featuring Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Lungi Ngidi.
Playoff Implications
A win for RCB would solidify their top-two finish, while SRH needs a victory to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive. All eyes will be on Sharma’s leadership and whether Agarwal can turn back the clock with a match-winning performance.
