Rajat Patidar Named RCB Captain: Virat Kohli’s Reaction

Virat Kohli Backs Rajat Patidar as RCB’s New Captain

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has appointed Rajat Patidar as their new captain for IPL 2025, a decision that took many by surprise. Former RCB captain Virat Kohli has responded with his full support, urging fans to stand behind Patidar.

Virat Kohli’s Message to Rajat Patidar

During the official announcement of RCB’s new captain, Virat Kohli sent a video message, saying:

"First of all, congratulations, Rajat. Wishing you all the very best. Your journey with RCB has been incredible, and you have truly earned the love of our fans. You deserve this captaincy. The entire team, including me, is behind you, and you will have all the support you need."

Kohli, who captained RCB for nine seasons, led the team to the 2016 IPL final before stepping down in 2022. After Faf du Plessis led RCB for three seasons, the franchise has now handed the reins to the young batter.

Kohli on Patidar’s Leadership Potential

Kohli praised Patidar’s growth and acknowledged the responsibility of captaincy:

"Leading RCB is a big honor. I have done it for many years, and Faf led the team in recent seasons. Now, Rajat will take the franchise forward. He has earned this captaincy with his talent and has matured significantly over the past two years."

RCB’s Search for Glory Continues

Despite being part of the IPL since 2008, RCB has yet to win a championship. The team has seen legendary captains like Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Kevin Pietersen, Daniel Vettori, Virat Kohli, and Faf du Plessis, but the title has remained elusive. The spotlight is now on Rajat Patidar to change the team’s fortunes.

Rajat Patidar’s RCB Journey

Patidar joined RCB in IPL 2021 and has since become a key player. He was among the three retained players this season. His performance highlights include:

✅ 2022 IPL Season: 333 runs, including a century

✅ 2023 IPL Season: Missed due to injury

✅ 2024 IPL Season: 395 runs, showing remarkable improvement

✅ Total IPL Stats for RCB:

Matches Played: 27

Total Runs: 799

Batting Average: 34.74

Strike Rate: 158.85

Despite his limited experience, RCB has entrusted Patidar with leadership, and fans are eager to see how he takes the team forward in IPL 2025.

Would Patidar be the captain to finally bring RCB their first IPL trophy? Time will tell.