There's something special about this RCB unit this year: Matthew Hayden

Sunil Gavaskar on Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli’s Impact

Speaking on JioHotstar, JioStar expert Sunil Gavaskar highlighted the performances of Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli, stating:

"Rajat Patidar has played under Virat Kohli and spent a lot of time with him, so he would have obviously gelled a lot easier. You could see that as soon as he went in to bat, Kohli was giving him the confidence to relax and play. And what an innings Virat Kohli played! What an innings Patidar played! It was a superb knock—the way he was stroking the ball and making it look easy. Recognizing that a quick victory is also important in the long run, RCB’s ability to restrict KKR from what initially looked like a 200-210 score down to 175 will give them loads of confidence. As a captain and a batter, Rajat Patidar has come good. Everything he did, including bowling changes, was outstanding."

Sunil Gavaskar on the Aggressive Approach of Batters

Gavaskar also spoke about the attacking mindset displayed by batters in the IPL:

"Batters are getting more adventurous and aggressive. They understand that the powerplay—where only two fielders are outside the inner circle—must be capitalized on. You have to aim for 10-12 runs per over and reach around 60-75 runs in the first six overs, even if you lose just one wicket. That creates a strong platform to push towards 180-200 runs."_

Matthew Hayden on Virat Kohli’s Chasing Masterclass

JioStar expert Matthew Hayden analyzed Virat Kohli’s approach while chasing, saying:

"This was the perfect total for Virat Kohli to chase down. If you find yourself in a par or slightly above-par scenario on such a surface, that’s where he thrives. It’s crucial that Phil Salt, as his partner, helps elevate the strike rate and scoring rate. Kohli has picked up exactly where he left off with Kolkata Knight Riders, but tonight and over the past two seasons, we’ve seen ‘Virat Kohli 2.0.’ Especially in the middle overs, he was really damaging. He finds it quite easy against pace in the powerplay, but today, through the middle overs, he maintained a strike rate above 170—exactly what was needed."

He also emphasized the importance of net run rate in the IPL:

"Every season, we talk about how crucial net run rate is, and this year is no different. Think back to last season, when RCB had to make a late surge—net run rate played a major role. This season, too, it will be vital."

Matthew Hayden on RCB’s Well-Rounded Performance

Praising Royal Challengers Bangalore’s performance, Hayden said:

"It was an emphatic and important victory for Rajat Patidar as the new captain. Having Virat Kohli in great form certainly helps. Their bowling lineup looked solid—Krunal Pandya was a handy asset through the middle, and Josh Hazlewood did what he does best. For the first time in a long while, I look at RCB’s setup and think—there’s something special about this unit this year."

Matthew Hayden on Krunal Pandya’s Role

Speaking about Krunal Pandya’s impact, Hayden said: "He was such a smart pick and a clever bowler. His change of pace, his ability to attack the stumps—it was an excellent setup. You can't beat experience in high-pressure situations, and he showed serious character. At one point, it looked like RCB was in deep trouble, but their comeback was superb."_

Matthew Hayden on the Upcoming MI vs CSK ‘El Clásico’

Looking ahead to the much-anticipated clash between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Hayden said: "It’s such a great fixture. These two sides have so much history together. And at Chepauk, CSK has controlled the game, just like Mumbai does at Wankhede. A win there would be significant, and CSK’s spin unit—one of the best in the competition—will play a crucial role. They’ve got their old friend back, Ravichandran Ashwin, which is great to see. He could be key on a wicket that I expect to offer turn. It’s only fitting that the season opener at Chepauk features Mumbai Indians."

Sunil Gavaskar on MS Dhoni’s Future

Gavaskar also addressed speculation over MS Dhoni’s participation in the season: "Why should we even ask that question? Why put pressure on him? Every time people question MS Dhoni, he proves them wrong. Don’t doubt his ability. Even at this age, he’s hitting sixes not just past the boundary but into the stands during practice. Age is just a number when it comes to Dhoni."

This landmark 18th season of TATA IPL promises to be bigger than ever! Get ready for an action-packed double-header! Catch all the action live, starting today at 3:30 PM as Rajasthan Royals take on Sunrisers Hyderabad, followed by the epic IPL El-Clásico—Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings at 7:30 PM, only on the JioStar Network!*