Rajat Patidar asks RCB batters to focus on shot choice to break home jinx

Rajat Patidar, the captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), was subtly frustrated after his team lost for the third time in a row at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium because they haven’t been able to adapt to the Bengaluru environment this season.

The Chinnaswamy pitch, which used to be a batter’s paradise, has been erratic and discourages aggressive hitting. RCB’s top order has had trouble settling in after being made to bat first every time at home.

“You’re absolutely correct—the choice of shot is important. When questioned about RCB’s strategy at home, Patidar stated,

“I think the bowlers are getting a lot of help because the wickets are two-paced this time and the bounce is varying. The way their ball is dipping, the way they are getting the bounce, so I think the more we focus on hitting [behind] square of the wicket, the better it will be.”

Rajasthan Royals, who are coming off four straight losses, including two losses in the final over, will play RCB in Bengaluru as they attempt to win their first game at home. To make matters worse, stand-in leader Riyan Parag, who hasn’t found his rhythm this season, will be under more pressure since regular captain Sanju Samson will continue to be sidelined due to an abdominal ailment.

But the Royals have been clinical in the PowerPlay despite their downturn. During the first six overs, they had the highest run rate and average. This season, PowerPlay wickets have been most frequently taken on the Chinnaswamy surface. Understanding the situations rather than resisting them will be crucial for RCB. Both teams need to win because the competition is nearing its conclusion and there is less room for error.