“Yes, of course”: Rajat Patidar replacing Suryakumar Yadav in Team India gets ap – Rajat Patidar’s IPL Heroics Spark Calls for National T20 Selection
The Rise of a New T20 Superstar
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long served as the ultimate proving ground for talent, and in the 2026 season, no name has shone brighter than Rajat Patidar. As the skipper of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Patidar has transformed from a consistent contributor into a bona fide match-winner, steering his franchise to a historic second consecutive IPL final appearance. His recent demolition of the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 was more than just a stellar innings; it was a statement of intent that has sent ripples through the corridors of Indian cricket selection.
A Masterclass Under Pressure
In a high-stakes Qualifier 1 encounter, Patidar displayed the kind of temperament that separates good players from truly elite ones. Facing one of the most formidable bowling units in the tournament, he orchestrated a stunning knock of 93 runs off just 33 balls. The innings was a masterclass in controlled aggression, featuring nine towering sixes and five boundaries. While RCB faced early setbacks, Patidar’s ability to stabilize the ship before launching an offensive onslaught showcased a level of maturity that is rarely seen in modern T20 cricket.
This performance cemented his place in history, as he joined an elite list of IPL captains to win a ‘Player of the Match’ award in a playoff game. He now shares this distinction with legends such as MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Adam Gilchrist—a testament to his influence on the game.
Expert Backing for National Duty
The intensity of Patidar’s form has ignited a massive debate regarding his inclusion in the Indian T20I squad. Former cricketers Aakash Chopra and Ambati Rayudu have been vocal in their support, arguing that the right-hander’s current trajectory makes him impossible to ignore.
Aakash Chopra took to social media to advocate for his selection, stating that a call-up is inevitable. Ambati Rayudu, providing a more analytical perspective, went a step further. When asked on a broadcast panel if Patidar should effectively step into the role currently occupied by Suryakumar Yadav—who has struggled for consistency throughout the 2026 IPL season—Rayudu provided a definitive response: ‘Yes, of course.’
Rayudu emphasized that if he were tasked with building a T20I squad from scratch, Patidar would be one of the first names on his list, citing his leadership capabilities and his ability to thrive under extreme pressure.
The Changing Landscape of India’s Middle Order
The conversation surrounding Patidar is intrinsically linked to the shifting form of established stars. Suryakumar Yadav, known as one of the most dangerous T20 batters in the world, has endured a challenging 2026 campaign. His struggle to find rhythm has created a void in the middle order that the Indian selectors may be forced to address as they look ahead to the next T20 World Cup cycle.
Furthermore, the emergence of leaders like Patidar and Shreyas Iyer suggests that the Indian team is entering an era where leadership and batting consistency must go hand-in-hand. Both players have demonstrated the tactical acumen required to steer a franchise, an attribute that is becoming increasingly valuable in international T20 cricket.
Looking Ahead
As RCB prepares for their second consecutive final, all eyes will remain on the RCB captain. Whether the selectors decide to pivot toward the hot hand of Patidar or stick with the proven, albeit struggling, veterans remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: Rajat Patidar has moved past the threshold of ‘potential’ and firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His story is no longer just about IPL success; it is a compelling case for a seat at the highest level of the game. The domestic circuit has produced many talents, but few have made their case for the national side with such undeniable authority and flair.
