IPL 2025: Virat Kohli Backs Rajat Patidar as RCB Captain, Declines Return to Leadership Role

Contrary to popular speculation, Virat Kohli will not be returning as the captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for the IPL 2025 season. Instead, the franchise has appointed 31-year-old Rajat Patidar as the skipper for the upcoming season, set to begin on March 21. The decision comes after RCB opted not to retain former captain Faf du Plessis ahead of the mega auction.

Fans and pundits had widely anticipated Kohli’s return to leadership, especially after his retirement from T20 internationals last year. Even his close friend and former teammate, AB de Villiers, believed Kohli was the “only option” to lead RCB. However, RCB’s management revealed that both Kohli and Patidar were considered for the role before the final decision was made.

RCB’s head coach Andy Flower shed light on his pre-auction conversation with Kohli, praising his “integrity and maturity” during the discussion. Flower emphasized that Kohli showed great enthusiasm and energy for the upcoming IPL season and fully supported Patidar’s appointment. He noted that Kohli’s respect for Patidar, both as a person and as a player, would contribute positively to the team dynamic.

“One of the things that stood out was his energy and enthusiasm for this IPL with RCB. He obviously likes and respects Rajat. I think that relationship will be very important,” Flower stated.

Director of Cricket Mo Babat confirmed that Kohli was indeed in the mix for the captaincy role. Babat and Flower met Kohli earlier in February in Ahmedabad to discuss the team’s leadership plans. Babat praised Kohli’s positive attitude and excitement about Patidar’s appointment, highlighting his continued commitment to the team.

Kohli last led RCB in the 2021 IPL season before stepping down to manage his workload. Although many expected him to reclaim the captaincy following his T20I retirement, Kohli chose to support the new leadership from the sidelines.

Rajat Patidar will lead a strong RCB squad this season, with experienced Indian players like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, and Jitesh Sharma adding depth to the team. With Kohli’s continued support and a robust Indian core, RCB looks poised for a competitive campaign in IPL 2025.

News Source : “Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.”