“We are right behind you”: Virat Kohli backs Rajat Patidar as RCB’s new captain

New Delhi [India], February 13 (ANI): Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has entered a new chapter as Rajat Patidar has been named the franchise’s captain for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The announcement has been met with strong support from former RCB captain Virat Kohli, who expressed his confidence in Patidar’s leadership.

In a video posted on RCB’s official X handle, Kohli extended his best wishes to Patidar, assuring him of the team’s unwavering support.

“Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, Rajat,” Kohli said. He further praised Patidar’s journey with RCB, highlighting his growth and impact on the franchise.

“The way you have grown in this franchise and the way you have performed, you’ve made a place in the hearts of all RCB fans. This is very well deserved,” Kohli added.

Patidar, known for his solid batting, now shoulders the responsibility of leading RCB in their pursuit of IPL glory. His appointment continues the rich legacy of leadership at the club, following in the footsteps of cricketing greats such as Rahul Dravid, Kevin Pietersen, Anil Kumble, Daniel Vettori, Virat Kohli, and Faf du Plessis.

Patidar’s appointment marks a significant moment for RCB, as the franchise looks to build on its rich legacy of leadership. With Kohli’s endorsement and the backing of the squad, Patidar now faces the challenge of guiding RCB in their pursuit of a maiden IPL title. Fans eagerly await to see how he embraces this new responsibility and leads the team in the upcoming season.

RCB has long been home to some of the most influential leaders in the game, and Patidar’s elevation to the role reflects the team’s faith in his abilities. With his tactical awareness and fearless approach, he will look to guide the team to success and cement his place among the franchise’s iconic captains.

Rajat Patidar has captaincy experience as a part of Madhya Pradesh (MP) team across all formats. In last year’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he led MP to the finals and played a crucial role in their campaign with 428 runs in 10 matches at an average of 61.14, a strike rate of over 186 and five fifties, ending as the second-highest run-getter in the tournament.

Patidar’s game against spin and ability to hit sixes against them have been standout features of his game.

He has been one of RCB’s standout Indian talents since 2022, scoring 799 runs in 24 innings at an average of 34.73 and a strike rate of 158.84, with a century and seven fifties. His century against LSG during 2022 IPL eliminator is a standout knock, making him first uncapped player with a century in IPL playoffs.

Last season for RCB, he scored 395 runs in 13 matches at an average of over 30 and a strike rate above 177, with five fifties. His fiery knocks were crucial in RCB’s late surge into playoffs after just one win in the first eight games.

He has also played an ODI and three Tests for India, having made his international debut against South Africa in 2023-end, playing a fiery 22-run knock.

In Tests, he struggled against England at home last year, with just 63 runs across six innings and best score of 32.