Sunil Gavaskar on Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli’s impact on IPL 2025

Legendary cricket player Sunil Gavaskar provided unique commentary on JioHotstar following the game, highlighting notable performances and important lessons learnt. Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli’s performances were emphasised by the former Indian legend. He also discussed how IPL hitters have an aggressive mentality.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has begun its historic 18th season, promising unmatched cricket action, performances that will break records, and thrilling entertainment. An exciting tournament was set in motion as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the season opener.

Given that Rajat Patidar has played with and spent a lot of time with Virat Kohli, it is clear that he would have adapted far more readily. When he batted, you could see that Kohli was giving him the confidence he needed to unwind and perform. Virat Kohli had an incredible innings! Patidar put up a fantastic performance! Gavaskar told JioHotstar exclusively, “The way he was stroking the ball and making it look easy was a superb knock.”

Knowing that a speedy win is also crucial in the long run, RCB will feel a great deal of confidence after holding KKR to a score of 175 after it first appeared to be between 200 and 210. Rajat Patidar has performed admirably as a batter and leader. He went on to say, “He was excellent at everything, including changing bowls.

“Adversity and aggression are increasing among batters. Their understanding is that they need to take advantage of the powerplay, which occurs when only two fielders are outside the inner circle. Even if you only lose one wicket, you still need to strike 10–12 runs each over and reach 60–75 runs in the first six overs. “That gives us a solid foundation to aim for 180-200 runs,” the 75-year-old said of the aggressive hitters’ strategy.

On the future of MS Dhoni, Sunil Gavaskar

Sunil Gavaskar also responded to rumours that MS Dhoni might play this season. He emphasised that whenever there was doubt about Dhoni’s involvement in the IPL, he has consistently shown his detractors to be mistaken. He also mentioned that the former skipper of the Chennai Super Kings saw age as simply a number.

“What’s the point of asking that? What’s the point of forcing him? When someone questions MS Dhoni, he always disproves them. Don’t question his competence. He is still smashing sixes during practice, not only over the boundary but also into the stands, despite his advanced age. In Dhoni’s case, age is only a number,” Gavaskar said.