Priyanka Tiwari
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Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has announced Rajat Patidar as their captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, which is set to begin on March 21. The franchise confirmed this decision on Thursday at an event in Bengaluru, where team director and head coach Andy Flower were also present.
Who is Rajat Patidar?
The 31-year-old cricketer joined RCB in 2022 and was one of the players retained before last year's auction. He has prior captaincy experience, having led Madhya Pradesh in domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (T20) and Vijay Hazare Trophy (ODI).
Under his leadership, Madhya Pradesh reached the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where they were defeated by Mumbai by five wickets. Patidar had an impressive campaign, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament behind Ajinkya Rahane. He scored 428 runs in 10 matches at an average of 61 and a strike rate of 186.08.
Virat Kohli to Play Under a Younger Captain
Before the official announcement, there was speculation about Virat Kohli returning as RCB's captain. Kohli previously led RCB from 2013 to 2021, holding the second-longest captaincy tenure in IPL history after MS Dhoni's stint with Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Now, at 36 years old, Kohli will play under a captain who is five years younger than him. Despite an excellent individual record, Kohli could not secure an IPL title for RCB during his leadership.
Virat Kohli's Reaction to Rajat Patidar's Appointment
After the announcement, Virat Kohli congratulated Rajat Patidar in a video message shared by the franchise.
"I and the other members of the team are with you, Rajat. The way you have progressed in this franchise and the way you have performed, you have made a place in the hearts of all RCB fans. You deserve it," Kohli said.
RCB’s Hunt for Their First IPL Trophy Continues
Despite having some of the biggest names in cricket over the years, RCB is yet to win the IPL trophy. The team has reached the finals three times and made it to the playoffs in four of the last five seasons. However, the coveted IPL title has remained elusive.
With Rajat Patidar at the helm, RCB fans will be hoping for a breakthrough season in IPL 2025.
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