Rajat Patidar named RCB captain for IPL 2025

In a surprising turn of events, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have appointed Rajat Patidar as their captain for the 2025 IPL season, set to begin on March 21. The announcement, made at a team event in Bengaluru on Thursday, ended speculation that former skipper Virat Kohli might reclaim the leadership role after RCB chose not to retain Faf du Plessis.

Patidar, who has been with RCB since 2021, becomes the franchise’s eighth captain. The 30-year-old batter has emerged as a key player, amassing 799 runs in 28 matches at a blistering strike rate of 158.85.

Head coach Andy Flower praised Patidar’s leadership qualities, emphasizing his composure under pressure. “Rajat has a calm and simple demeanor, which will be invaluable in the high-pressure environment of the IPL,” Flower stated.

The appointment signals a new chapter for RCB as they look to break their title drought in the upcoming season.