Rajat Patidar reveals being 'angry' at RCB for signing him as a replacement

The rise of Rajat Patidar in the ranks has emerged as one of the swiftest in IPL history. The right-handed batter, hailing from the domestic zone of Madhya Pradesh, joined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru camp in 2022. However, the batsman didn't earn a direct seat in the RCB camp for the season. Patidar was signed as an injury replacement. In the same season, Patidar roared his belonging to the big stage, smashing a century for RCB in the eliminator against LSG. From an injury replacement to now being the skipper of the fan-favorite franchise, Rajat Patidar has marked a unique spot of his own.

Rajat Patidar reveals his first reaction on being signed as an injury replacement by RCB in IPL 2022

Rajat Patidar, currently at the helm of Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2025, recently reflected on the emotional highs and lows that shaped his journey to leadership. Despite receiving early assurances, he was left out during the 2022 mega auction, an omission that left him disheartened and frustrated. The setback was tough to digest, especially after being led to believe he would be retained. However, fate took a turn when Luvnith Sisodia’s injury opened a door for Patidar's return to the squad.

“I had got a message (ahead of the mega auction for IPL 2022) that you be ready... that we will pick you. I had a little hope that I will get another chance (to play for RCB). But I wasn't picked in the mega auction. I was a little sad,” Patidar said. “I (had) started playing in my local matches in Indore (after not getting picked in the auction). Then, I got a call that 'we are picking you as a replacement for Luvnith Sisodia', who was injured. To tell you frankly, I didn't want to come as a replacement because I knew that I won't get a chance to play there, and I always feel that I don't want to sit there (in dugout).

Still, the opportunity wasn’t met with immediate joy. Patidar admitted feeling upset about being brought in only as a replacement, a sentiment that lingered even after he rejoined the team. Yet, it was the guidance of Virat Kohli and the former skipper's belief in him that helped ease the transition. Kohli’s mentorship proved pivotal, especially as Patidar adapted to the pressures and expectations that come with leading a high-profile franchise.

“I wasn't angry. It was like, if they didn't pick me (during the auction), then I won't get it (get to play). I was angry for a while but then I was normal,” he recalled.

This season, Patidar has emerged as a vital cog in the RCB middle order, amassing 239 runs in 11 appearances and playing a stabilizing role as the team eyes its elusive first IPL championship. Though his path has been anything but straightforward, Patidar’s rise stands as a testament to resilience, self-belief, and the importance of the right support at the right time.