Rajat Patidar appointed as the new captain for RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have announced Indian batter Rajat Patidar as their captain for the IPL 2025 season. The 31-year-old takes over from Faf du Plessis, who led the side from 2022 to 2024, guiding them to two playoff appearances. Patidar becomes the eighth captain in the franchise’s history, joining the ranks of Virat Kohli, Anil Kumble, and Rahul Dravid.

Patidar’s journey with RCB has been remarkable. After being a replacement player in 2022, he left an instant mark with a stunning 112* off 54 balls in the IPL Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants. Despite missing the 2023 season due to an Achilles injury, RCB retained him, and he made a strong comeback in 2024, smashing 33 sixes and scoring 395 runs in 15 matches.

RCB’s decision to appoint Patidar comes after a stellar domestic season. He recently led Madhya Pradesh to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final, finishing as one of the top run-getters with 428 runs and five fifties. His leadership and fearless approach have convinced the franchise that he is the right choice to take RCB forward.

Ahead of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, RCB retained Patidar for ₹11 crore, alongside Virat Kohli (₹21 crore) and Yash Dayal (₹5 crore). This move signals RCB’s intent to build a strong core while aiming for their first-ever IPL title. Patidar’s explosive batting and leadership qualities will be tested as he steps into the captain’s role for the first time in the IPL.

RCB have had several iconic leaders since the league’s inception in 2008, including Kevin Pietersen, Shane Watson, and Daniel Vettori. Patidar now gets the opportunity to add his name to that list and attempt to end RCB’s long wait for an IPL trophy.

With IPL 2025 approaching, all eyes will be on Rajat Patidar as he leads RCB in a new era. Fans will be eager to see if his aggressive style can bring the much-coveted championship to Bengaluru.