Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are facing a major setback ahead of the IPL 2025 restart as captain Rajat Patidar is likely to miss the initial matches due to a finger injury sustained during their home fixture against Chennai Super Kings at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Patidar’s injury, which required him to wear a splint and refrain from batting in practice, has put his immediate participation in doubt, with his recovery set to be reassessed in the coming days.
Extent of the Injury and Recovery Timeline
Patidar’s finger injury was initially expected to sideline him for at least two matches, but the week-long suspension of the IPL provided a brief window for recovery.
However, recent assessments suggest that Patidar could miss not just the May 17 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders but potentially several more games, and there is even concern he might be ruled out for the remainder of the season if his recovery does not progress as hoped.
RCB management is hopeful he could return for the business end of the tournament, possibly as an Impact Player, but this will depend on his rehabilitation in the coming days.
Leadership Options in Patidar’s Absence
If Patidar is unavailable, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma is expected to take over the captaincy duties for RCB.
There is also fan speculation about a possible return to captaincy for Virat Kohli, who has led the franchise in the past and is currently the leading run-scorer for RCB this season.
However, Jitesh Sharma remains the frontrunner for the interim captaincy role.
Additional Injury Woes for RCB
Patidar’s absence adds to RCB’s growing list of injury concerns. Devdutt Padikkal has already been ruled out for the season with a hamstring injury, and premier pacer Josh Hazlewood is unlikely to return due to a shoulder injury and international commitments.
The franchise may also face overseas player shortages during the playoffs, with several key players potentially unavailable due to national team duties.
Impact on RCB’s Campaign
RCB are currently second on the points table, with their hopes of ending a long title drought riding high.
Patidar’s injury comes at a crucial juncture, and his absence could be a significant blow as the team heads into the final leg of the league stage and potential playoffs.
The management will closely monitor his recovery, hoping for a timely return to bolster their campaign.
