Tue May 27 18:20:00 UTC 2025: ## RCB’s Impact Player Blunder: Patidar Mix-Up Creates Confusion Against LSG
**Bengaluru, May 28, 2025** – A clerical error nearly jeopardized Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) crucial match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday, as a mix-up with the Impact Player selection caused confusion and raised questions about the Impact Player rule.
Rajat Patidar, initially named in the playing XI despite a finger injury, was slated to feature only as an Impact Player. However, his name appeared on the official team sheet presented at the toss, while leg-spinner Suyash Sharma, the expected Impact Player when batting first, was absent.
“We will field first… Rajat Patidar is our impact player,” RCB’s stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma announced at the toss, further fueling the confusion. Broadcasters also reflected the incorrect lineup, compounding the issue.
Under the Impact Player rule, teams submit two lineups, anticipating batting or bowling first. RCB’s initial sheet for bowling first incorrectly included the injured batter Patidar and excluded a crucial bowler.
A corrected team sheet, with Suyash Sharma replacing Patidar, eventually surfaced on social media, and broadcasters updated their graphics accordingly.
Former India player and ex-RCB coach Sanjay Bangar highlighted the potential consequences of the error during commentary, explaining that LSG had the right to reject the corrected lineup. Had they done so, RCB would have been forced to field an injured Patidar and potentially play one bowler short, a significant disadvantage.
The incident underscores the complexities of the Impact Player rule and the potential for seemingly minor errors to have a major impact on the game. While RCB managed to rectify the situation this time, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accuracy and coordination in team management. The error emphasizes the need for careful attention to detail when navigating the often complex regulations of modern T20 cricket.
First Piper 