The Decision: Rajat Patidar Chosen as RCB Captain for IPL 2025
"Of course, Virat was an option and that goes without saying and I know that the fans would’ve probably lent towards Virat in the first instance, but we’ve seen a lot of love for Rajat too," Bobat said during an event in Bengaluru where Rajat Patidar was unveiled as the captain for IPL 2025. The decision to appoint Patidar as the new leader of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) was a bold and strategic move. While Virat Kohli, the veteran cricketer, is undoubtedly a strong candidate and a natural leader, the team saw immense potential in Patidar. This decision not only reflects the team’s trust in Patidar’s capabilities but also acknowledges the growing fan base and the young talent he represents.
Virat Kohli: A Leader Beyond the Title
Kohli led the RCB franchise from 2013 to 2021 before stepping down from the role. He briefly took over as captain in 2023 when regular captain Faf du Plessis was injured, showcasing his enduring leadership qualities. According to Bobat, "Leadership, as we’ve all seen, is one of his strongest instincts. It just comes naturally to him. He leads regardless of the title." Kohli’s leadership is not confined to the captaincy role; his presence and influence are felt throughout the team. His ability to set the tone with the bat, his energy in the field, and his unyielding spirit make him an invaluable asset to the team, regardless of his official designation.
The Support System: Patidar and Kohli’s Dynamic
Despite not being the designated captain, Kohli’s role in the team remains significant. Bobat expressed confidence that Patidar would lean on Kohli for support, just as du Plessis did. "Everybody in the country and everyone in the world knows that Virat’s a leader in every sense of the word. Andy [Flower, head coach] and I lean on him quite a lot. Faf has lent on him quite a lot, and we’re pretty sure that Rajat will be leaning on him too." Kohli’s experience and ideas are expected to play a crucial role in Patidar’s leadership journey. Patidar himself acknowledged this, saying, "His experience and ideas will definitely help me in my leadership role."
The Behind-the-Scenes Involvement
Bobat revealed that Kohli was actively involved in discussions surrounding Patidar’s appointment as captain. "Andy and I spent some time with Virat earlier this week actually in Ahmedabad, and it was really nice getting some time with him and talking things through with him [about captaincy]," Bobat said. Kohli’s enthusiasm and support for Patidar’s appointment were evident, as he was "so pleased for Rajat, like us." Kohli’s recognition of Patidar’s deserving nature and his readiness to back him fully speak volumes about the team’s unity and the mutual respect among its members.
Kohli’s Impact on the Team’s Turnaround
Kohli was a pivotal figure in RCB’s dramatic turnaround in IPL 2024. After a slow start with just one win in their first eight games, RCB won six consecutive matches to secure a place in the playoffs. Though they eventually lost in the eliminator, Kohli’s performance was nothing short of remarkable. He finished the season as the highest run-scorer with 741 runs in 15 innings, earning the purple cap. According to Flower, "Virat’s energy and motivation and drive is really something special to behold in a 36-year-old cricketer that’s done everything in the game. It’s great role modelling for the younger players and younger overseas players to come and work with him as well."
Looking Forward: A New Era with Patidar
Patidar’s appointment marks the beginning of a new era for RCB. While he is a relatively new face in the leadership role, his partnership with Kohli and the support of the coaching staff provide a strong foundation for success. Patidar expressed his excitement and humility, stating, "It’s a great opportunity for me to learn from one of the best. I have had a lot of partnerships with him, so I think I know him very well. So yeah, his experience and his ideas will definitely help me in my leadership role." The combination of Patidar’s fresh perspective and Kohli’s seasoned guidance promises to bring a balanced and dynamic approach to the team’s leadership, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive season ahead.
