Virat Kohli believes Rajat Patidar has the talent and leadership skills to captain RCB for a long time and take the team forward.
Virat Kohli has expressed strong support for Rajat Patidar, calling him a talented player with great leadership qualities. Ahead of IPL 2025, Patidar was named Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s new captain, a decision that surprised many after the exit of Faf du Plessis.
Speaking at the RCB Unbox Event, Kohli stated that Patidar has the potential to lead the franchise for a long time. He urged fans to support the right-handed batter throughout the tournament.
“The guy who is going to come next, is a guy who will lead you guys for a long time. So give him all the love you can,” Virat said.
“He is an amazing talent. He is a great player, we all know that, but he has got a great head on his shoulders, and he will do a great job for this amazing franchise and take the team forward. He has got everything that’s required,” he added.
Rajat Patidar also expressed his excitement about leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2025, calling it a special opportunity. He acknowledged the legacy of players like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle, whom he grew up watching at RCB.
“Legends like Virat bhai, AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle have played for RCB. I grew up watching them. From the start, I have loved the franchise a lot. I am happier that I got a new role to lead one of the biggest teams in T20 cricket,” said Patidar.
RCB will begin their campaign against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 22 at Eden Gardens. The newly appointed captain will aim to lead the team to its maiden IPL title.
RCB Squad for IPL 2025
Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Liam Livingstone, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Nuwan Thushara, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethel, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh, Mohit Rathee.
