Not Kohli, But Faf Du Plessis Inspired RCB’s Rajat Patidar as Captain
Rajat Patidar Reveals True Leadership Inspiration Behind RCB’s IPL 2026 Success
As Royal Challengers Bangalore continue their dominant run in IPL 2026, captain Rajat Patidar is being hailed not just for his on-field performances but for his composed leadership. With RCB sitting at the top of the points table with 18 points from 13 matches, the defending champions are on the verge of making history—potentially becoming the first RCB side to win 10 games in a single season.
Yet, amid all the praise, one revelation has stood out: Patidar isn’t citing Virat Kohli as his leadership role model. Instead, he’s pointing to Faf du Plessis—the man who preceded him as RCB skipper and led the charge before the 2025 title breakthrough.
Why Faf Du Plessis, Not Kohli?
In a recent interview with Sportstar, Patidar opened up about how du Plessis’s leadership style left a lasting impression on him, particularly in the way the former South African skipper communicated with players.
“It was crucial not to copy any of the predecessors. But there was one thing I was very influenced by from du Plessis: how he spoke to and gave importance to each player. He was confident; his body language conveyed authority on the ground,” Patidar said.
Though Kohli’s fiery leadership defined RCB for over a decade, Patidar emphasized that emulating him wasn’t the goal. Instead, he focused on authenticity—drawing quiet confidence from du Plessis’s more measured, inclusive approach. That philosophy appears to be paying off as RCB remains a tightly knit, motivated unit.
Mentorship Beyond the RCB Dressing Room
Patidar also credited Chandrakant Pandit, his former coach with Madhya Pradesh, for instilling a deep sense of preparation and tactical awareness in him.
“Chandu sir taught me how meticulously you can prepare for a cricket game, how deeply you can study it. He has played for 20 years and then coached for another 20. His tactical strength was eye-opening for me,” he said.
Pandit, known for transforming domestic teams with his disciplined methods, helped shape Patidar’s mindset long before he stepped into captaincy. That foundation has proven vital in managing RCB’s high-pressure environment.
Batting Through the Noise
While his leadership has drawn acclaim, Patidar remains a key contributor with the bat. In IPL 2026, he’s amassed 337 runs in 11 innings at an average of 33.70 and a blistering strike rate of 192.
Still, he’s faced criticism over inconsistency, especially after failing to score in his last two outings. Compounding the concern, Patidar missed RCB’s most recent match against Punjab Kings due to a concussion.
Addressing the doubts, he remained grounded: “My batting was of the multi-day mould while growing up, but I still had a good strike rate in this format. I have been able to get that clarity on how to bat across formats. I worked on my T20 game and tried to add to my strengths. The shots I can play now are because I have been practising them for years. People say I play spin very well, but I actually enjoy playing pace more.”
What’s Next for RCB?
With the playoffs on the horizon, all eyes will be on whether Patidar can return fit and fire in the crucial clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad. If RCB are to defend their crown, they’ll need their captain not just on the field—but at his best.
One thing is clear: Rajat Patidar isn’t walking in anyone’s shadow. By blending du Plessis’s calm authority, Pandit’s strategic rigor, and his own evolving identity, he’s carving out a unique legacy at the helm of RCB.
