Rajat Patidar, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter, has been in sensational form in the Indian Premier League (IPL), playing a key role in their back-to-back title wins in 2025 and 2026. Despite his consistent performances, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors have not considered him for the national T20I squad. This decision has raised eyebrows among fans and cricket pundits alike.
Patidar's Stellar IPL Form
Patidar has been a standout performer for RCB in the last two IPL seasons. In IPL 2025, he scored 450 runs at an average of 40.91 and a strike rate of 152.54. He followed it up with an even better IPL 2026 campaign, amassing 520 runs at an average of 47.27 and a strike rate of 158.54. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed has been crucial for RCB's success.
Why Was He Overlooked?
According to sources within the BCCI, the selection committee has a specific vision for the T20I team. The current middle-order is packed with established players like Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Rishabh Pant. Additionally, the emergence of young talents like Tilak Varma and Riyan Parag has made the competition even tougher.
Another factor is Patidar's perceived weakness against short-pitched bowling. Despite his domestic success, international bowlers have exploited this vulnerability in the past. The selectors are also looking for players who can contribute with the ball, a department where Patidar does not offer much.
What Does the Future Hold?
Patidar remains in contention for a spot in the Indian team, especially in the longer formats. He has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket and has a first-class average of over 50. The selectors have advised him to work on his game against pace and bounce to improve his chances for the T20I side.
Fans will hope to see Patidar don the Indian blue soon, but for now, he will have to continue knocking on the doors with his bat.
