Former India all-rounder and T20 World Cup winner Irfan Pathan opined that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set to face some challenges in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.
Wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt and captain Rajat Patidar played key roles last year for RCB as they won their maiden IPL title. However, Pathan noted that the performances of the two right-handed batters have not been great of late. Talking about Salt, the England star only managed one half-century in the recently concluded T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, Patidar scored just 67 runs across three games in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and 113 runs from seven innings in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
"This year they will have some challenges. Phil Salt is not in form. Even in the World Cup recently, he scored only one fifty. Rajat Patidar's form in domestic cricket has not been great either. As captain it is very important for you that you feel well. That will be a matter of concern," he said on his YouTube channel.
Pathan reflected on the trust shown by head coach Andy Flower in Patidar's ability, especially his calmness under pressure. However, the cricketer-turned-commentator wondered whether Patidar would be able to keep his composure when he has to deal with the added pressure of living up to the expectations, entering the tournament as defending champions. Pathan also mentioned that life without Josh Hazlewood, who is expected to miss a few matches at the start of the tournament, would not be easy for RCB and its skipper.
"Andy Flower believes a lot in Rajat's ability. He was made captain looking at his calmness, looking at him for a long time, following his demeanor. Andy Flower has himself told he stays calm. This will be the real challenge for Rajat. You have set a level and now you have to maintain that. You will not have the services of your frontline pacer at the start. How will he stay calm then? It will all depend on that," he expressed.
Tim David is also not in his usual form: Pathan
Pathan also mentioned Australian batter Tim David's dismal T20 World Cup campaign, where he scored just six runs in two innings. However, the former India all-rounder concluded by saying that he is not too worried about RCB's batting department, especially because the pitches will be better during the IPL.
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