The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has made waves by appointing Rajat Patidar as their new skipper for the IPL 2025 season, following the release of Faf du Plessis. The decision has sparked considerable interest, particularly as many had speculated the captaincy might revert to former RCB leader Virat Kohli.
Pattidar’s elevation marks him as the eighth captain of the franchise. Despite Kohli's legacy, he has opted to prioritize his batting over leadership duties, as highlighted by former India opener Kris Srikkanth. Srikkanth suggested on his YouTube channel, Cheeky Cheeka, "I think Virat would have said no to the captaincy. He would have said 'I want to focus on batting'." This choice points to Kohli’s strategic shift, allowing newer talent like Patidar to lead the charge.
Mohammad Kaif, another notable figure from India’s cricketing past, expressed surprise at Kohli not reclaiming the captaincy, citing the logical expectation for senior leadership following the departure of Du Plessis. Kaif remarked, "I was a little surprised. I thought Virat Kohli would lead RCB, considering they did not retain Faf du Plessis." He noted Kohli’s immense standing within RCB, hinting at his behind-the-scenes influence over team decisions, even as the captaincy role shifted to Patidar.
RCB’s head coach Andy Flower emphasized Patidar’s calm demeanor, presenting him as suitable for the challenges of captaincy during the high-pressure settings of the IPL. He stated, "The calm, simple demeanor inherently lives within Rajat and is going to serve him well."
Patidar himself has risen through the ranks impressively since making his IPL debut with RCB back in 2021. Having showcased talent and leadership potential as captain of Madhya Pradesh, he has proven his capabilities significantly. He successfully led his state team to the finals of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Indian Vijay Hazare Trophy, which likely played a role in RCB’s decision to invest their trust in him.
Notably, Kohli extended his warm congratulations to Patidar in an official RCB video, saying, "Rajat, I want to congratulate you, wish you all the best... this is very well deserved." Kohli’s endorsement hints at unity within the team and his willingness to support Patidar as he steps up to the plate.
RCB, notwithstanding its illustrious roster, has yet to secure the elusive IPL trophy, which has undoubtedly placed added pressure on Patidar’s young shoulders. The franchise retained only three players during the auction season, namely Kohli, Patidar, and fast bowler Yash Dayal, signaling their belief in the trio's pivotal roles moving forward. At the same time, RCB bolstered their squad with experienced players, acquiring key all-rounders and strengthening their pace attack with notable names such as Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
Upon Patidar’s appointment, some have drawn parallels between him and legendary captain MS Dhoni, who assumed leadership under similarly low expectations during the inaugural T20 World Cup of 2007. Srikkanth remarked, "When we appointed Dhoni... not much was expected of him... it's a bit like this... expectations from Rajat Patidar as captain are not high. He will take his own calls and consult Virat Kohli, who will be a guiding force."
Indeed, Kohli’s ability and experience will be invaluable assets for Patidar, who has emphasized his readiness to lead. The dual dynamic of Kohli’s experience and Patidar’s fresh outlook may well shape RCB’s strategies as they chase championship success this season.
RCB enthusiasts have braced themselves for the 2025 season, hopeful for the leadership shift to translate to positive team performance on the pitch. RCB's full squad, which reflects their strategic acquisitions and focus on balance, includes promising talents like Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, and Liam Livingstone, creating balanced perspectives as the team gears up for the competition.
Although RCB has faced disappointments over its 18-year broadcast history, the trust placed on Patidar as captain signifies the franchise's intent to build on its legacy with innovation and youth. With Rahat Patidar leading the franchise, backed by the immense figure of Virat Kohli, all eyes are on RCB as they enter the IPL 2025 campaign, hoping to finally grasp their first title.