The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) advanced to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 Final with a dominant win over the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 in New Chandigarh. In addition to praising Suyash Sharma for his outstanding bowling effort, RCB captain Rajat Patidar praised the pacers for making use of the surface.
The winning captain stated that he will instruct Suyash to keep his tactics simple, focusing on attacking the stumps. Rajat Patidar went on to say that he had no problem giving up a few runs to the leg-spinner.
“I think we were clear in our plans, how we have to bowl. I think the fast bowlers used the surface really well. The way Suyash chipped in, the way he bowled his lines and lengths, that was really good. As a captain, I am clear about his bowling. He has to target the stumps, that’s his strength. His wrong’un is difficult to read for the batters. I always want to give him clear ideas, I don’t want to confuse him. I am okay if he concedes a few runs (in the process.) We have had a lot of practice sessions throughout the tournament, so one day of not practising won’t harm you.”
Rajat Patidar

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The Indore native also admitted that he is a great fan of Phil Salt’s powerful starts at the top of the order. He conveyed his sincere appreciation to the RCB supporters who support the team wherever they play, not just at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, which is the team’s home field, but also from all over the nation.
“The way he (Salt) is batting in most of the matches. The way he is giving starts, I am a big fan of him. It’s a treat to watch him from the dugout. That’s really good. I always thank RCB fans, not only in Chinnaswamy, but wherever we go we feel it’s our home ground. We love you, so keep supporting us. One more game and let’s celebrate together.”
Rajat Patidar