Rajat Patidar has etched his name in the annals of IPL history by becoming only the second captain in the 19-year history of the tournament to achieve a massive record. The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper led his team to the final of the IPL 2026 season, and in doing so, he joined an elite club of captains who have accomplished a rare feat.
The Record
Patidar is only the second captain in IPL history to score over 500 runs and take more than 10 wickets in a single season. The only other captain to achieve this double is the legendary Shane Watson, who did it for the Rajasthan Royals in 2018. Patidar's all-round performance has been instrumental in RCB's journey to the final.
Patidar's Stellar Season
In the ongoing IPL 2026 season, Patidar has amassed 520 runs at an average of 43.33 and a strike rate of 145.92. He has also picked up 11 wickets with his off-spin, making him a valuable asset for the team. His leadership has been praised by cricket pundits and fans alike.
RCB's Road to the Final
RCB qualified for the final after a convincing win in Qualifier 1 against the Chennai Super Kings. Patidar's all-round performance in that match, where he scored 45 runs and took 2 wickets, earned him the Player of the Match award. The team will now face the Mumbai Indians in the final, aiming to win their first IPL title.
Historical Context
Shane Watson's 2018 season remains the benchmark for all-round captaincy performances. Watson scored 555 runs and took 11 wickets for the Rajasthan Royals. Patidar's achievement is particularly remarkable as he is a relatively new captain, having taken over the reins of RCB earlier this season.
Reactions from the Cricket Fraternity
Cricket legends have lauded Patidar's leadership and all-round skills. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar said, "Rajat Patidar has shown great maturity as a captain. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a special player." RCB fans have also expressed their delight on social media, with many calling him the best captain since Virat Kohli.
What Lies Ahead
As RCB gear up for the final, Patidar will be looking to lead from the front once again. The team's success this season has been built on his all-round contributions and tactical acumen. Whether they win the title or not, Patidar has already cemented his place in IPL history with this unique record.
