Aakash Chopra criticized RCB captain Rajat Patidar for his questionable bowling changes during their IPL 2025 opener against KKR. He highlighted Patidar’s decision to bowl Rasikh Dar and Krunal Pandya in the powerplay, as they conceded 31 runs after KKR were 9/1. Despite these tactical errors, RCB restricted KKR to 174/8 and successfully chased the target, winning by seven wickets with 22 balls to spare.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra questioned Patidar’s decision to bowl Rasikh Dar and Krunal Pandya.
“RCB started off strongly, but then suddenly the tide turned, and the runs kept flowing for the opposition. We had actually discussed earlier in the morning about Rajat Patidar’s captaincy, and I felt he missed an opportunity there. After three solid overs, he brought Rasikh Salam in for the fourth, which seemed like a strange decision,” Chopra noted (12:20).
“Yash Dayal could have been given another over. Instead, he opted for Krunal Pandya in the fifth over, and I couldn’t help but think, ‘What are you doing, my friend?’ Ajinkya Rahane seized the opportunity and kept on hitting,” he added.
“After 10 overs, 100 runs were on the board, and 200 seemed expected. Rahane’s performance was exceptional, especially for him personally, as consistent scoring earns respect,” Chopra explained.
“As the match progressed, especially after Krunal Pandya’s three-wicket haul, it felt like the game was turning. We had questioned RCB’s spin attack, but when the weakest link becomes your strongest, credit is due. The two spinners took four wickets,” he added (13:35).
“Krunal Pandya impressed after a costly first over, finding his rhythm and bowling with precision. Meanwhile, Suyash was expensive and bowled loose deliveries, though he did dismiss the dangerous Andre Russell,” Chopra concluded
In conclusion, Aakash Chopra stated that KKR would be disappointed with their batting performance in their IPL 2025 match against RCB. He highlighted that the defending champions fell, despite looking on track for a 225+ total.