‘Where is Rajat?’ Fans slam RCB for leaving 2-time title-winning captain Rajat Patidar out of celebratory post featuring Virat Kohli

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru‘s successful defence of their IPL crown should have been a moment of unfiltered celebration. Instead, a social media post shared by the franchise after their IPL 2026 triumph has sparked an unexpected debate among fans. While RCB lifted their second consecutive title after defeating Gujarat Titans in the final, many supporters were left asking one question: “Where is Rajat Patidar?”

The controversy erupted after RCB posted a photograph featuring Virat Kohli, head coach Andy Flower and team director Mo Bobat posing with the IPL trophy. Accompanied by the caption, “Three men. One mission. The rest is history. 🏆”, the post quickly went viral. However, it wasn’t long before fans began questioning the absence of the team’s captain, Rajat Patidar, from a post celebrating one of the most successful phases in the franchise’s history.

Fans question the omission of the title-winning captain Rajat Patidar

The image was intended to celebrate RCB’s remarkable achievement of winning back-to-back IPL titles. While it received plenty of appreciation, a significant section of supporters felt that the franchise had overlooked the individual who led the team to both championships.

Social media platforms were flooded with reactions from fans who believed Patidar deserved a place in the post. Many pointed out that the captain had played a crucial role in shaping the team’s success over the past two seasons and should have been one of the central figures in any title celebration.

For supporters, the issue was not about diminishing Kohli’s contribution but about acknowledging the leader who guided the team on the field throughout the campaign.

Patidar’s leadership transformed RCB

Patidar’s captaincy has been one of the biggest success stories in recent IPL history. After taking over the leadership responsibilities, he helped RCB break their long wait for a maiden IPL title in 2025. Rather than being a one-season wonder, the franchise returned stronger in 2026 and successfully defended the trophy.

His calm approach, tactical awareness and ability to back his players have earned praise from both teammates and cricket experts. During the 2026 season, Patidar led from the front in key moments, including a stunning unbeaten 93 in Qualifier 1 that played a major role in securing RCB’s place in the final.

By guiding the franchise to consecutive championships, he entered an exclusive group of IPL captains who have successfully defended a title, further strengthening his legacy within the tournament.

Virat Kohli’s heroics in the final remain undeniable

Despite the criticism surrounding the post, few fans disputed Kohli’s importance in RCB’s title-winning campaign. The former captain once again delivered when it mattered most, producing an unbeaten match-winning knock of 75 runs in the final to help his side cross the finish line.

Kohli’s contribution to RCB over the years has made him one of the franchise’s most iconic figures. His presence in the celebratory image was therefore understandable. However, many supporters argued that celebrating Kohli and recognising Patidar’s captaincy achievements should not be mutually exclusive.

Notably, for years, RCB were often accused of relying heavily on star power while struggling to convert potential into trophies. The arrival of sustained success under Patidar’s leadership has changed that narrative. The reaction to the post reflects how much fans value the collective identity that has emerged within the squad. While Kohli continues to be the face of the franchise, supporters believe the team’s recent achievements have been built on strong leadership, smart coaching and a culture that prioritises results over individual stardom.

Also READ: Top 5 oldest cricketers to win Player of the Match awards in IPL final ft. Virat Kohli

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Captains to win multiple trophies in IPL history ft. Rajat Patidar

Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: crickettimes.com

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