Ahmedabad: Jason Holder has addressed the controversy surrounding his catch to dismiss Rajat Patidar during the Indian Premier League 2026 clash, saying he was focused on completing the chance and avoiding a collision while running in.

The incident, which occurred during the match between Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, sparked widespread debate over whether the ball had touched the ground before Holder completed the catch.

Holder recounts key moment

The dismissal came when Patidar top-edged a short delivery from Arshad Khan, sending the ball high towards deep backward square leg. Holder sprinted to his right and executed a diving effort to complete the catch.

With Kagiso Rabada also converging towards the ball, Holder had to remain alert to avoid a mid-field collision while attempting the catch.

“I did see him (Rabada), hoping I didn’t run into him. I had an eye on him. My biggest thing was to get there. I welcomed it as it came. Just happy to hold on to the chance and help the team win,” Holder said after the match.

Catch triggers major controversy

Despite the on-field decision being given out, the catch quickly became a talking point.

Replays appeared to show that Holder might not have been in full control of the ball, with suggestions that it could have brushed the ground while in his grasp.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru camp, including Virat Kohli, expressed visible frustration, believing the ball had touched the turf. However, the third umpire upheld the decision after review.

The moment proved pivotal in the context of the game, as it halted RCB’s momentum during a crucial phase of their innings.

Match-winning performance by Holder

Holder went on to play a significant role in Gujarat Titans’ victory and was named Player of the Match.

The all-rounder returned impressive figures of 2 for 29 in his four overs and also contributed in the field with a total of three catches.

“It was one of those nights. The energy was quite high, and credit to KG (Rabada) and (Mohammed) Siraj for bowling well in the powerplay,” Holder said.

He also praised the team environment within the Gujarat Titans setup, highlighting the importance of adaptability and awareness.

“The way this franchise operates is very nice. It’s about having an open mind, being switched on, and executing well,” he added.

GT secure comfortable win

After being put in to bat, RCB got off to a brisk start through Kohli but failed to capitalise. The batting unit collapsed under disciplined bowling from the Titans and were bowled out for 155.

Arshad Khan was the standout bowler with figures of 3 for 22, while the rest of the attack maintained pressure throughout the innings.

In reply, Gujarat Titans chased down the target comfortably. Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a blistering 43 off 18 balls, setting the tone for the chase.

The visitors reached the target with 25 balls to spare, registering a four-wicket win and strengthening their position in the tournament.

Conclusion

While the debate over Holder’s catch continues among fans, the all-rounder’s calm explanation and overall performance underlined his impact on the match. For Gujarat Titans, the victory was a result of disciplined bowling and composed chasing, while RCB will look to bounce back after a game that slipped away at crucial moments