Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued their impressive campaign in the Indian Premier League 2026 season with a convincing 18-run win against the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium. The side also recorded their highest total at this venue during the match.
The team’s total was built on an aggressive innings from Phil Salt, who struck 78 off 36 balls and earned the Player of the Match honour. Captain Rajat Patidar contributed with a quickfire 53 off just 20 deliveries to strengthen the score.
With the ball, Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma delivered key performances to keep the opposition in check.
Speaking about the batting form, Patidar underlined the consistency shown by the side.
“Looking at the moment, it feels like we are scoring 200-plus in every match. It gives me a lot of confidence, and as a captain, I feel like I have a lot of talent in the team,” he further stated.
Patidar also described his approach while batting and reading the game situation.
“I don’t really think too much about how I want to play. I try to react to the ball and stay clear about what I want to do, which shot I want to hit, and which bowler I want to target. Even in the dugout, I try to read where the scoring opportunities are,” he noted.
Krunal highlighted the role of the coaching staff in improving performances.
“A lot of credit goes to DK, the mastermind as well. He has worked really hard with individuals to get the best out of them. He will be the happiest seeing the way we are batting,” he further asserted.
Patidar also assessed the bowling performance under challenging conditions.
“Even with 200 on the board, there is always pressure with dew and conditions. I thought Bhuvi bhai and Jacob started very well and executed the plan,” he further noted.
The skipper identified Rasikh Salam’s spell as a decisive phase in the match, noting, “The turning point for me was Rasik. The way he planned, the slower balls, the yorkers, it gave me confidence. After his first over, I felt he could change the game.”
Patidar also commended Krunal Pandya’s bowling abilities in detail.
“KP is the most courageous bowler I have ever seen. He has so many skills. He keeps the batsman in doubt about the next ball. This is his strength. He bowls with a lot of confidence. He is not afraid to do anything,” he added.
Head coach Malolan Rangarajan praised Rasikh’s determination despite physical discomfort.
“He’s a guy who we know has got a lot of character and shows a lot of resilience. Everybody could see that he was cramping in both legs, but he’s still competing and doing the best for the team. That’s what Rasik is. A pocket dynamite, a fighter and a competitor,” he said.
Also Read: Royal Challengers Bengaluru Beat Mumbai Indians By 18 Runs In IPL Thriller
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