Rohit Sharma ignored!: Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav honoured amid IPL 2026

Rohit Sharma ignored!: Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav honoured amid IPL 2026

As the IPL 2026 playoffs heat up, one rapid-fire video has ignited conversations across the cricketing world. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) all-rounder Romario Shepherd sat down with Cricbuzz for a quickfire round that was meant to be light-hearted — but ended up making serious statements. In a segment filled with instinctive answers, Shepherd spotlighted some of the league’s most impactful batters. Yet, one name was conspicuously absent: Rohit Sharma.

Rohit Sharma ignored!: Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav honoured amid IPL 2026 — and fans are questioning why one of India’s most decorated captains was left out entirely.

Virat Kohli: The Chase Master

When asked who is always one step ahead during a run chase, Shepherd didn’t hesitate: “Virat Kohli.” And he doubled down on that sentiment when questioned about the batter he’d most want at the crease in a pressure situation. “In a pressure game, I would still say Virat Kohli because he’s a master of chasing,” he said.

For Shepherd, Kohli’s ability to read the game, manage strike, and accelerate at will separates him from the rest. He also named the RCB legend as the batter who can “get a boundary on demand” — high praise in a league defined by explosive scoring.

Suryakumar Yadav: The Field-Setter’s Nightmare

Despite not being his teammate, Suryakumar Yadav earned a top spot in Shepherd’s list. When asked which batter is the toughest to set a field against, Shepherd paused, then answered: “Oh, let me think hard on this one. Surya (Suryakumar Yadav)?” That single hesitation spoke volumes.

Known for his unorthodox stroke play and 360-degree range, SKY continues to baffle bowlers and captains alike. Shepherd’s nod reinforces the idea that Suryakumar isn’t just a fan favourite — he’s a genuine tactical challenge in any phase of the game.

Tim David: The Death Overs Specialist

While best known for his towering sixes, Tim David has quietly built a reputation as a multi-dimensional all-rounder. Shepherd highlighted both sides of David’s game. Asked which batter could deliver 20 runs in the last over, the RCB all-rounder picked David without flinching.

But more surprisingly, he also credited David as the batter who “reads bowlers at the depth the best” — a technical compliment not often associated with power hitters. This insight suggests David’s success isn’t just brute force, but intelligent shot selection under pressure.

Rajat Patidar: The Unexpected Power Threat

RCB skipper Rajat Patidar might not have the chiseled frame of a traditional power hitter, but Shepherd was impressed by what matters most: results. “Physically, Rajat Patidar might not have looked like a powerhouse, but his ability to smash the balls for maximums impressed me very much,” he said.

Patidar’s rise as a dependable middle-order enforcer has been one of IPL 2026’s quieter success stories — and Shepherd’s recognition adds weight to his growing reputation.

A Glaring Omission: Where Was Rohit Sharma?

With mentions for Kohli, SKY, David, and Patidar, the absence of Rohit Sharma stands out. A five-time IPL champion, former Mumbai Indians captain, and one of the league’s most decorated performers, Rohit’s omission sparked immediate debate among fans.

Shepherd wasn’t asked directly about Rohit, but given the range of questions — toughest to set a field, best chaser, boundary-on-demand player — many expected the veteran opener to feature. Whether it was oversight, personal opinion, or simply the randomness of rapid-fire choices, the silence speaks volumes.

In a season where legacy players are being re-evaluated, Rohit Sharma ignored!: Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav honoured amid IPL 2026 could reflect a shifting guard — or simply one player’s personal perspective. Either way, the conversation is now unavoidable.

As RCB prepares to face Shubman Gill’s Gujarat Titans in the playoffs on May 26 in Dharamshala, performances will ultimately speak louder than opinions. But for now, the cricket world has another storyline to follow — and one legend left wondering where he stands.

rapid fire ft. Romario Shepherd 🔥
Batter who is toughest to set a field to? 🏟️
Batter who can get boundary on demand? 🏏
Watch NOW 📱@RCBTweets pic.twitter.com/WKBZIeoSDG