Royal Challengers Bengaluru is really close to winning their first IPL title on Tuesday when they face Punjab Kings in the final in Ahmedabad. Led by Rajat Patidar, RCB has been one of the strongest teams this season. But going up against PBKS won’t be a walk in the park since they’re also a tough opponent this year.
Right before the final, there’s still uncertainty about whether star all-rounder Tim David will play. He’s missed the last two matches due to a hamstring injury. In the press conference before the final, Patidar mentioned, I still have no idea about Tim David. The doctors are around, and we’ll find out this evening.
Also, reports say that Phil Salt, one of RCB’s key opening batters, might not be available either because he is expecting a baby. He didn’t show up for training the day before the final, which has raised some eyebrows about whether he’ll be in Ahmedabad for the match. According to ESPNCricinfo, he might be with his partner for the birth of their first child. RCB’s coach Andy Flower and Patidar didn’t comment on this situation, likely wanting to keep things under wraps before the big game.
For Patidar, it’s a big ask since he was only named captain just before the tournament began. Meanwhile, his opposite number, Shreyas Iyer, has already won the IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders last year and is the only captain to lead three different teams into IPL finals. Patidar expressed that he’s enjoying the experience so far. “It’s a great chance for me to learn from some really good leaders and players, and it’s helping me a lot in my leadership role,” he said.