The Rise of Rajat Patidar as RCB Captain
Rajat Patidar’s leadership in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has become a major topic of discussion among cricket fans and analysts alike. This attention is not without merit, as comparisons between Patidar and the legendary MS Dhoni have been increasingly drawn. While the visual similarity in their hairstyles initially sparked these comparisons, it is now the captaincy style that has solidified the connection.
Patidar’s leadership with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has led the team to their second IPL trophy in history, showcasing a blend of consistency, calmness, and an effective team culture. These qualities are reminiscent of what made MS Dhoni one of the most successful captains in cricket history. Fans have noted that the resemblance extends beyond just the hair, as Patidar’s leadership is becoming more defined with each match.
More Than Just the Long Hair
In the early days of his career, MS Dhoni was known for his iconic long hair. However, his true impact on the field came through his ability to handle pressure during high-stakes tournaments. Dhoni consistently backed his strategies and his teammates while maintaining an impressive level of composure. It seems that Rajat Patidar has adopted a similar mindset during his tenure with RCB.
Leading RCB is one of the most scrutinized roles in Indian cricket, especially given the presence of Virat Kohli, one of the greatest players in the game. Despite this, Patidar managed to maintain his cool throughout the season, making composed decisions and displaying stable body language. This temperament became a key factor in RCB’s successful title run.
The Calming Leader Who Lets Players Shine
Dinesh Karthik, the former wicketkeeper batsman for RCB, praised Patidar’s influence in the dressing room after the IPL final. He stated:
“Rajat has been a huge calming influence in a dressing room that is high-octane and high testosterone. He keeps things very calm, and that’s so important.”
This statement highlights the shift in the RCB squad’s demeanor under Patidar’s leadership. While the team traditionally played a high-octane style of cricket, Patidar’s inclusion has introduced a more balanced approach.
Karthik also noted:
“I think he likes to be a star, not a superstar.”
This sentiment aligns with MS Dhoni’s approach, who preferred to let his players shine rather than seeking the spotlight himself. Patidar’s leadership style mirrors this by guiding his teammates and ensuring they feel valued.
Trust in His Bowlers
Patidar’s captaincy style is characterized by trust in his bowlers. He explained:
“My style of captaincy is different. I’m not very expressive, but I’m always aware of the game situation. I don’t go to the bowlers too often because I trust them. They already have clear plans. My job is not to disturb them repeatedly.”
This approach has created a sense of unity within the RCB team. Every member, regardless of experience, feels valued and part of the process. As Patidar mentioned:
“Everybody feels as though they are important.”
Why This Comparison Feels Natural
Comparing any skipper to MS Dhoni is no small feat, given his immense impact on the sport. However, Rajat Patidar’s leadership in 2026 has earned him a place in these discussions. His calmness, belief in his players, and ability to handle pressure have brought much-needed stability to RCB, ultimately leading to their second IPL title.
While the initial comparison was based on the long hair, it is now Patidar’s composure and leadership that reinforce the link to Dhoni. As the cricket world watches, it is clear that Patidar is carving out his own legacy, one that draws inspiration from the greats while forging a unique path forward.
