IPL 2025: New Era, New Captain, Rajat Patidar to Captain RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have named Rajat Patidar as their new captain for the IPL 2025 season. The announcement was made at the RCB Unbox event, where Patidar was present alongside the team owner and management. This marks a remarkable chapter in his cricketing career, transforming from an underrated talent to a key player for the franchise. Faf du Plessis, who had been leading the team since 2022, has passed the baton, making Patidar the eighth captain in RCB’s history.

A new chapter begins for RCB and we couldn’t be more excited for Ra-Pa! 🤩

From being scouted for two to three years before he first made it to RCB in 2021, to coming back as injury replacement in 2022, missing out in 2023 due to injury, bouncing back and leading our middle… pic.twitter.com/gStbPR2fwc

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 13, 2025

Rajat Patidar Cricketing Journey

Rajat Patidar’s journey in professional cricket has been nothing short of inspiring. He made his first-class debut in 2015-16 for Madhya Pradesh, announcing himself with a century in his debut match. However, his defining moment came in the 2022 Ranji Trophy final, where his century against Mumbai helped Madhya Pradesh lift the trophy after 69 years.

His IPL breakthrough came in 2022 when he joined RCB as a replacement player. He went on to deliver one of the most memorable playoff knocks in IPL history – a breathtaking 112* off 54 balls against Lucknow Super Giants in the Eliminator. That season, he ended up as RCB’s third-highest run-scorer with 333 runs at a phenomenal strike rate of 152.75.

Patidar’s IPL Performance & Stats

Despite being signed by RCB in IPL 2021, Patidar played only four matches before being released. However, his 2022 heroics cemented his place in the squad. Unfortunately, he missed the 2023 season due to a heel injury but made a strong return in 2024. Now, as captain, he will aim to take RCB to their first-ever IPL title.

Why is Rajat Patidar the Perfect Choice for Captain?

RCB’s decision to appoint Patidar as captain signals a new direction for the franchise. He brings an aggressive yet composed batting approach, resilience under pressure, and a deep understanding of the game. Having played crucial knocks in high-stakes games, he has proven his ability to perform when it matters the most. Many fans expected Virat Kohli to take over the captaincy, but he congratulated Patidar through a video message instead-

𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬! 💌

“Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, Rajat”: Virat Kohli

“The way you have grown in this franchise and the way you have performed, you’ve made a place in the hearts of all RCB fans. This is very well deserved.”… pic.twitter.com/dgjDLm8ZCN

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 13, 2025

With a squad filled with star players, Patidar’s leadership will be pivotal in uniting the team and delivering match-winning performances. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a high strike rate makes him a valuable asset.

What Lies Ahead for RCB Under Patidar’s Leadership?

RCB fans have long awaited their maiden IPL trophy, and with Patidar at the helm, hopes are high. His captaincy will bring a fresh perspective, and if he can replicate his past heroics, RCB could finally break their title drought.

The 2025 IPL season promises to be an exciting one, and all eyes will be on Rajat Patidar as he takes charge of RCB. Can he lead them to the first-ever title? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—he’s ready for the challenge!

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