Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has officially announced Rajat Patidar as their captain for IPL 2025. The 31-year-old middle-order batter from Madhya Pradesh will take on this significant responsibility, stepping into a leadership role after his impressive performance and growing stature within the team during the 2024 season. This decision marks a strategic shift for RCB as they look to build a dynamic and potentially long-term leadership structure.
Rajat Patidar appointed as Captain of RCB for IPL 2025
After the departure of Faf du Plessis, who admirably led the team in previous seasons, the RCB management made a conscious decision to appoint an Indian player as captain. This move aligns with the franchise’s vision of fostering local talent and creating a stronger connection with the Indian fanbase.
While there were widespread speculations and fan hopes about Virat Kohli potentially returning to the captaincy, the franchise opted for a fresh and bold direction by entrusting the leadership to Patidar.
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Patidar’s Cricket Journey and Rising Star
Rajat Patidar’s IPL journey began in 2021, and he has been an integral part of RCB’s setup ever since. Over the course of 27 IPL matches for the franchise, he has accumulated 799 runs, boasting a solid average of 34.74 and an impressive strike rate of 158.85.
His most memorable performance came in the Eliminator of IPL 2022, where he smashed an unbeaten 112, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure in crucial moments.
Beyond his IPL exploits, Patidar has also demonstrated leadership capabilities in domestic cricket, having captained Madhya Pradesh in both the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy during the 2024-25 seasons. This domestic leadership experience, though at a different level, provides a foundation for his new role as RCB captain.
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Reactions, Expectations, and the Road Ahead
The announcement of Patidar as captain has triggered a wide range of discussions and debates among cricket experts and fans alike.
Some have voiced concerns and questioned his readiness to handle the immense pressure that comes with leading a high-profile IPL team like RCB, particularly given his relative lack of experience in leadership positions at the highest levels of the game.
As RCB sets its sights on finally clinching their elusive first IPL title, all eyes will be firmly fixed on Patidar. The upcoming IPL 2025 season, anticipated to commence around March 21, will serve as a crucial proving ground for Patidar’s leadership skills and a testament to RCB’s faith in their newly appointed captain.
