IPL 2026: ‘Sighted it, picked it up’: Holder breaks down his ‘magnificent’ catch of Patidar

Ahmedabad, May 1 (IANS) Gujarat Titans (GT) player Jason Holder described his effort in the field to dismiss Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar as one of the most magnificent catches, adding that his focus was to reach towards the ball after his all-round performance helped the side register a dominant four-wicket win at Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday.

Holder’s contribution, including three catches and two wickets, played a key role in restricting RCB to 155 in 19.2 overs. “I was just trying to get there. I saw it go off the bat pretty early, sighted it, picked it up, and just tried to get there. For me, it was just trying to avoid KG (Kagiso Rabada) because he was coming close to me. But I felt I had enough room, and I just went for it, and it stuck. It is the most magnificent catch,” Holder said in a video released by IPL on X.

During the first innings when RCB were trying to build a solid platform, in the eighth over, Patidar, who was batting on 19, attempted to play a pull shot, Holder stationed at deep backward square leg charged to his right and took a fine low catch. Rabada too was charging across to take it, but Holder managed to ignore that.

RCB players, who thought Holder wasn’t in control of the catch and had touched the turf, were having an argument with the umpires. But the umpires reckon otherwise, as replays appeared inconclusive on whether the ball had touched the ground. Despite the concern, the third umpire cleared the catch after a review, and Patidar was adjudged out.

Reflecting on his role in the side, Holder emphasised his team-first mindset. “My mindset is pretty clear — whatever I’m asked to do, I just want to come and perform for the team,” he said.

He also praised the team environment and recent momentum. “I just love the energy in the group. The energy is pretty good. We’ve been able to get across in the last two important games, which is really good for our confidence,” Holder noted.

Despite the convincing win, the all-rounder believes the team has more to offer. “I think we’re still yet to play the perfect game, but it’s good that we’re coming into our own and still getting across the line,” he added.

With this victory, the Gujarat Titans strengthened their position in the standings with 10 points in five matches. They will next face the Punjab Kings on May 3.

–IANS

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