RCB captain Rajat Patidar faces injury setback ahead of IPL 2026 News24 –

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar has been sidelined due to injury for a long time as he suffered a muscle tear during unofficial Test against South Africa. The injury has potentially ruled him out for several months and also raised concerns over his availability in IPL 2026.

According to a report by Dainik Jagran journalist Abhishek Tripathi, the 32-year old batter might be out of action for about four months. This means that he will be missing the entire Ranji Trophy season and other key domestic tournaments.

But if the rehabilitation progresses smoothly then Rajat Patidar will be seen in action and leading RCB in IPL 2026. Patidar was instrumental with the bat throughout the season, amassing 312 runs at a strike rate of 143.77. His form extended beyond the IPL as well – he smashed his maiden Ranji Trophy double century for Madhya Pradesh against Punjab and enjoyed a prolific 2024–25 domestic season, scoring 529 runs in seven matches at an average of 77.

Rajat Patidar led RCB towards its maiden title win in IPL 2025 after 18 years of wait. He also showcased his leadership skills, captaining Central Zone to the Duleep Trophy and he also led Rest of India (ROI) in the Irani Cup against Vidarbha.