Workload Management, Not Injury, Behind Rajat Patidar's Cautious Return Ahead of IPL 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) received a positive update regarding the fitness of captain Rajat Patidar amidst a string of injury concerns plaguing the squad ahead of the IPL 2026 season. While Patidar made his long-awaited return to competitive cricket for Madhya Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 29 runs, his delayed entry into the tournament was confirmed to be a precautionary measure rather than a fresh injury setback.

Reports indicate that Patidar was advised rest as part of a careful workload management plan, having recently recovered from a left ankle issue sustained before the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. This measured approach is aimed at ensuring the top-order batter is fully fit and prepared for the demands of the upcoming IPL season, offering a measure of relief to the RCB camp.

This news provides a crucial silver lining for RCB, which is currently grappling with injury clouds over several key overseas players, including Phil Salt, Tim David, and Josh Hazlewood. Patidar's successful return to the field, even if managed cautiously, is vital as the franchise looks to defend its maiden IPL title in 2026.