IPL 2025: RCB Appoints Rajat Patidar as New Captain
Rajat Patidar has been named the new captain of RCB for IPL 2025.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has named Rajat Patidar as their new captain for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. The announcement was made on Thursday. Patidar, a middle-order batter, will now lead the team.
RCB’s Decision to Appoint Patidar
RCB took time to decide their new captain. The team had several discussions before choosing Patidar. The franchise’s COO, Rajesh Menon, said it was a tough decision. He also mentioned that this move would benefit RCB in the coming years.
At the official event, Patidar was given the RCB captain’s blue blazer and red cap. He was joined on stage by RCB’s head coach Andy Flower, director of cricket Mo Bobat, and COO Rajesh Menon.
Kohli’s Support for Patidar
Virat Kohli, RCB’s former captain, decided not to take up the role again. After talking to senior players, the team management picked Patidar as the best option to lead RCB.
Kohli shared his thoughts on Patidar’s appointment. He praised Patidar’s growth as a player and his connection with fans. Kohli also encouraged fans to support Patidar. He said leadership is a big responsibility and wished Patidar success in his new role.
Other Captaincy Options Considered
RCB also thought about all-rounder Krunal Pandya for the role. Pandya has experience in leadership and has been part of the team’s strategies. However, the franchise decided to go with Patidar.
Before the IPL 2025 mega auction, RCB retained Patidar for ₹11 crore. Kohli was retained for ₹21 crore, while fast bowler Yash Dayal was kept for ₹5 crore.
Patidar’s Past Experience as Captain
Patidar has experience leading a team. He was the captain of Madhya Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last year. Under his leadership, the team reached the final but lost to Mumbai. Patidar performed well, scoring 428 runs in nine matches, making him the second-highest run-scorer of the tournament.
RCB’s Past Captains
Patidar is the eighth captain in RCB’s history. The previous captains were:
- Rahul Dravid
- Anil Kumble
- Daniel Vettori
- Virat Kohli
- Shane Watson
- Faf du Plessis
Now, it is Patidar’s turn to lead the team. Fans will be eager to see how he performs in IPL 2025.
