Rajat Patidar will miss Royal Challengers Bengaluru's crucial IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings due to an unspecified reason. Jitesh Sharma will captain in his absence. Patidar has been a key performer with 326 runs this season.
Jitesh Sharma's IPL 2026 struggles continue, drawing criticism from Ambati Rayudu for technical flaws, especially against short balls. After a stellar 2025, his form has plummeted, with low scores and a struggling strike rate. Rayudu highlighted his inability to adapt, a concern given the rapid pace of IPL matches and limited practice time.
RCB wicket-keeper Jitesh Sharma has explained his comment describing RR teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as "unprofessional", which sparked discussion on social media. The remark originated during a chat with AB de Villiers on his YouTube channel where Jitesh named the 15-year-old as a young Indian player with big potential. Speaking on an RCB podcast, Jitesh clarified they are very close friends, describing Vaibhav as like his younger brother who loves ice cream and typical teenage activities. He defended the youngster against criticism, stating he is only 15 and should be allowed to be a child.
RCB wicket-keeper Jitesh Sharma has clarified his comment describing 15-year-old RR player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as "unprofessional", saying it was made in a playful context between close friends. Jitesh explained he was responding to AB de Villiers' question about promising young Indian talent on his YouTube channel, and later defended the teenager on an RCB podcast, emphasizing that at 15, he should be allowed to be a child without bearing excessive expectations.
