IPL 2025: Virat Kohli backs new RCB captain Rajat Patidar to lead franchise for years

Rajat Patidar joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2021.

Legendary batsman Virat Kohli has backed new Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar, days ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

The franchise announced Patidar as captain on February 13, amid months of speculation over whether Kohli himself would return to the role.

Earlier, RCB released Faf du Plessis before the mega auction. He captained RCB from the 2022 to 2024 seasons. During his tenure, the team reached Qualifier 2 in 2022, finished sixth in IPL 2023 and played the Eliminator in the 2024 season.

Virat Kohli backs Rajat Patidar to lead RCB for years

Speaking at RCB’s Unbox event, Kohli addressed the fans and had some encouraging words for Patidar. Virat emphasized that he has a great head on his shoulders and possesses everything needed to lead the franchise.

He said, “The guy who is going to come next is the guy who’s going to lead you for a long time. So, give him all the love you can. He’s an amazing talent; he’s a great player; we have all seen that.“

He added, “He has a great head on his shoulders, and he will do a great job for this amazing franchise and take the team forward. He has got everything that’s required.”

Patidar joined the franchise during the IPL 2021 season and has so far scored 799 runs in 27 games at a strike rate of 159. He played an integral role in RCB’s impressive second-half performance in IPL 2024 with his excellent hitting against spinners in the middle overs.

RCB will feature in the opening match of IPL 2025, taking on defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 22 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Bengaluru have added some exciting prospects this season, including Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Phil Salt. They will aim to end their trophy drought this year.

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