IPL 2026: RCB vs KKR, Match 57 - Top player battles to watch out for
RCB host KKR at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur.
2) Rajat Patidar vs Sunil Narine
Rajat Patidar has been one of the defending champions’ most prolific batters. He has been renowned in the IPL as a dominant spin-hitter, but now looks assured against the fast bowlers as well. This has seen him grow in stature as a destructive middle-order enforcer, capable of soaking up pressure when necessary. In 2026, he has scored 326 runs at a strike rate of 195.21, which goes up to 212.8 against spin.
The Knight Riders’ spinners have been a major part of their recent upward form, led by the enigmatic Sunil Narine. Narine has picked up 10 wickets in nine matches and has bowled at an economy rate of 6.51 in the 2026 edition. Patidar’s responsibility will be to ensure that Narine is unable to settle into his rhythm.
RCB strike at a tournament-best 167.96 in the middle overs, of which Patidar is a major contributor. Narine will have to be at the top of his game to ensure the middle overs run flow is kept in check.
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