Rajat Patidar has been named captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for IPL 2025, which starts on March 21. The announcement surprised many, as there was widespread speculation that Virat Kohli might return to lead the team after RCB released Faf du Plessis, who captained from 2022 to 2024.
RCB revealed the news at an event in Bengaluru, where team director Mo Bobat, head coach Andy Flower, and Patidar were present. This appointment makes Patidar the eighth captain in RCB’s history. Since joining the team in 2021, he has played 28 matches, scoring 799 runs at a strike rate of 158.85.
Head coach Andy Flower praised Patidar’s leadership qualities, highlighting his calmness, decision-making skills, and steely determination. Flower noted that Patidar’s experience as Madhya Pradesh captain in domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy impressed the team management.
Bobat acknowledged that the team considered Kohli for the role but preferred an Indian captain for better local pitch and player knowledge. He also mentioned consulting Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, and Patidar during the decision-making process.
Kohli congratulated Patidar in a video message, commending his growth as a player and leader. “The way he has led his state team and performed for RCB has earned him this role,” Kohli said.
Patidar expressed his excitement, saying he first wanted to captain his state side before taking on an IPL leadership role. He believes in supporting his players and maintaining a composed presence on the field.
Patidar had a strong domestic season, scoring 428 runs in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and 226 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. RCB, still chasing their maiden IPL title, hope Patidar’s leadership can guide them to success in 2025.
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