New Delhi, March 12 (NationPress) Former Indian cricket captain Anil Kumble expressed that Rajat Patidar will encounter a significant challenge as he aims to guide Royal Challengers Bengaluru towards back-to-back victories in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The pressure will undoubtedly be elevated following last season's remarkable success.

Patidar assumed the captaincy from Faf du Plessis prior to the 2025 season and successfully led RCB to their inaugural trophy win in Ahmedabad. As RCB gears up to commence their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28, all eyes will be fixed on their ability to claim consecutive titles, a feat previously achieved by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI).

"Winning consecutive titles won't be straightforward for Rajat Patidar's RCB. Only CSK and MI have succeeded in securing trophies repeatedly in the past. However, I believe Patidar performed admirably as captain during his initial season," Kumble stated.

“When he was appointed as skipper, it caught many by surprise as most anticipated Virat Kohli would take up the role again. The team management opted for Patidar, and it proved to be a wise decision. His prior captaincy experience with Madhya Pradesh was beneficial, and he excelled in domestic competitions.

“His selection as captain was based on his experience, and he led the team effectively. He managed the bowling resources well, and RCB assembled a formidable bowling lineup with spinners making significant contributions. This was a crucial factor in their success. However, the challenge now is that the expectations are soaring. Nevertheless, he appears composed and calm under pressure, which is his unique selling point. That should serve him well," Kumble added during his comments on JioStar.

Regarding Venkatesh Iyer's prospects of breaking into the playing eleven, especially with RCB's stable batting order, Kumble suggested that he may not start in the initial matches.

“I doubt Venkatesh Iyer will be included in the playing XI at the outset. The focus will be on maintaining the same starting eleven that contributed to lifting the trophy after 18 years. Devdutt Padikkal should definitely feature in the lineup. He missed a few crucial matches due to injury but is currently in excellent form with the bat. He will take on the impact player role when RCB bowls first.

“Suyash Sharma will serve as the bowling impact player when RCB bats first. This was the structure they adopted last season. Unless they choose to go with an additional batter capable of bowling at the season's beginning, depending on performances in the nets and practice matches.

“Otherwise, I don't foresee Iyer being in the starting lineup. However, he is a valuable asset to have in the squad. Whenever an experienced batter is needed, he is available. As a left-hander, he can switch with Padikkal if necessary during the new season,” he elaborated.

Kumble also highlighted that RCB’s overseas player balance remains robust. “Romario Shepherd and Tim David are expected to feature together in the playing XI. It’s crucial for RCB to have both players on the field simultaneously as they are adept at finishing games effectively with the bat.

“Discussions will arise regarding Jacob Bethell's fit in the eleven, but Phil Salt will surely start. If Hazlewood is fit, he will also be a starter. The remaining overseas spots will be filled by Tim David and Romario Shepherd, making RCB a formidable team.

“This composition lengthens their batting order and provides an additional bowling option with Shepherd. The primary concern for RCB this season is the availability of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood. Their fitness and Hazlewood's recovery from injury will be pivotal. If both are fit, there should be no issues. However, I will closely monitor their bowling lineup. I have no concerns about the batting,” he concluded.