Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed concern regarding Rajat Patidar’s form ahead of IPL 2026. Patidar had scored 312 runs in 15 matches of IPL 2025 at an average of 24 and a strike rate of 143.77 and played an instrumental role in taking RCB to their maiden IPL title.

Meanwhile, Patidar could only manage 113 runs in seven innings of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy at an average of 16.14 and a strike rate of 136.14 while playing for Madhya Pradesh. Moreover, the right-hander could only manage 67 runs in three matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Furthermore, RCB opener Phil Salt is not in good form as he had a mundane run in the T20 World Cup for England.

“This year they will have some challenges. Phil Salt is not in form. Even in the World Cup recently, he scored only one fifty. Rajat Patidar’s form in domestic cricket has not been great either. As captain it is very important for you that you feel well. That will be a matter of concern,” Pathan said on his YouTube channel.

“Andy Flower believes a lot in Rajat’s ability. He was made captain looking at his calmness, looking at him for a long time, following his demeanor. Andy Flower has himself told he stays calm. This will be the real challenge for Rajat. You have set a level and now you have to maintain that. You will not have the services of your frontline pacer at the start. How will he stay calm then? It will all depend on that,” he expressed.

Moreover, Pathan also raised concerns about Australian power-hitter Tim David’s form ahead of the upcoming season.

“Tim David is also not in his usual form. It was not seen in the T20 World Cup. Yes, there will be better pitches in the IPL and these batters can regain their form. I am still not worried about their batting a lot,” he said.

RCB will begin their IPL defense against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru on 28th March.