Bengaluru: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) took a bold step ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season by appointing Rajat Patidar as their new captain, a move that signaled a shift from experience to fresh leadership. The decision came after the franchise released veteran Faf du Plessis and refrained from bidding aggressively for proven leaders like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Shreyas Iyer in the IPL auction.
RCB retained only three players—Virat Kohli, Patidar, and Yash Dayal—before the auction, allowing them the flexibility to rebuild their squad. While they engaged in bidding wars for Rahul and Pant, they ultimately opted out, securing key additions such as Josh Hazlewood, Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Krunal Pandya, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar instead. However, they did not prioritize acquiring a new captain, paving the way for Patidar’s unexpected elevation to the leadership role.
The Thought Process Behind Patidar’s Appointment
RCB's Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, emphasized that Kohli played a significant role in the leadership discussions, offering insights that helped shape the team’s decision. "We spent a lot of time evaluating our leadership options. We spoke to DK [Dinesh Karthik], consulted with Virat, and had multiple discussions with Rajat himself," Bobat revealed.
Bobat added that Patidar's leadership ambitions were clear, and his performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy showcased his ability to handle pressure situations. "What struck us was Rajat’s determination and hunger to lead. He really wanted this opportunity, and we had the chance to observe his captaincy in domestic cricket," Bobat said.
Importantly, Kohli’s endorsement of Patidar was a crucial factor. "We leaned on Virat for his experience and input. Watching Rajat closely in pressure games was encouraging. Ultimately, we felt he was the right fit for the role," Bobat explained.
Kohli’s Role in the Transition
Kohli, who led RCB for nearly a decade before stepping down in 2021, was considered a potential captaincy option. However, he backed the management’s decision to hand over the reins to Patidar. Bobat acknowledged that while Kohli remains a natural leader, his impact extends beyond formal captaincy.
"Virat doesn’t need a title to lead. His instincts, energy, and leadership qualities are evident every time he steps onto the field. We know he will be a guiding force for Rajat," Bobat noted.
RCB’s head coach, Andy Flower, also praised Kohli’s maturity and support for Patidar. "In our discussions, Kohli showed immense integrity. His enthusiasm for this season and his belief in Rajat stood out. He knows Patidar has earned this opportunity," Flower remarked.
Balancing Leadership Styles
With Kohli’s aggressive and high-intensity approach contrasting with Patidar’s measured leadership style, the challenge for RCB will be to strike a balance between these two personalities. "There are different ways to lead," Flower explained. "Virat’s energy and drive are unmatched, while Rajat’s composed approach could bring a fresh perspective. The key will be ensuring a seamless partnership between them."
Flower emphasized that Patidar would need to make independent decisions while also drawing from Kohli’s vast experience. "A captain must listen, assess, and make the final call. Rajat has the temperament for this, and we are confident in his ability to grow into the role."
Messages from Kohli and Du Plessis
Both Kohli and former captain Faf du Plessis sent heartfelt messages to Patidar, congratulating him on his new role. In a video message, Kohli acknowledged Patidar’s evolution and expressed confidence in his leadership abilities. "This is a huge responsibility, and I’m very happy for Rajat. He has earned this position. I’ve seen his growth as a player and leader. He has what it takes to take RCB forward," Kohli said.
Kohli also urged RCB’s passionate fan base to support Patidar wholeheartedly. "Rajat will always put the team first. We must back him as he leads us into a new era."
Du Plessis echoed similar sentiments, stating that captaining RCB is a unique honor due to its passionate fan following. "I’m delighted to pass on the baton to Rajat. He has the leadership group’s full support, and I’m sure he will do a great job. More importantly, keep smashing sixes!" Du Plessis quipped.
What Lies Ahead for RCB?
As RCB prepares for the upcoming IPL season, the team faces the challenge of integrating their new signings and ensuring a smooth leadership transition. With Kohli providing unwavering support, Patidar stepping into his biggest role yet, and a balanced squad taking shape, RCB hopes that their bold gamble on leadership will finally bring them the elusive IPL trophy.
Whether this decision will pay off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—RCB’s journey under Patidar’s captaincy will be one of the most closely watched narratives of IPL 2025.
