Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans have a new reason to cheer as Rajat Patidar steps up as the team’s captain for IPL 2025. With the season kicking off today against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), all eyes are on the 31-year-old batsman to see if he can lead RCB to their first-ever IPL trophy. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting development.
Who is Rajat Patidar?
Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, Rajat Patidar made his IPL debut with RCB in 2021. He shot to fame in 2022 with an unbeaten 112 off 54 balls against Lucknow Super Giants in the Eliminator, showcasing his aggressive batting style. In the 2024 season, he smashed 395 runs in 15 matches, including 33 sixes, cementing his reputation as a game-changer. Now, as captain, Patidar faces the daunting task of ending RCB’s 18-year wait for an IPL title.
Virat Kohli Backs the New Leader
Virat Kohli, RCB’s biggest star and former captain, has thrown his weight behind Patidar. “He has all the qualities of a leader, and I’m confident he’ll take the team forward,” Kohli said in a recent interview. However, cricket analyst Aakash Chopra believes Patidar holds the key to RCB’s success this season. On his YouTube channel, Chopra remarked, “With stars like Kohli, Liam Livingstone, and Phil Salt, it’s still Patidar who can make or break this campaign.”
Expert Opinions on Patidar’s Captaincy
RCB head coach Andy Flower praised Patidar’s potential, stating, “He’s got the backing of experienced players like Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, which will strengthen his leadership.” Meanwhile, former RCB legend AB de Villiers advised Patidar to carve his own path. “He shouldn’t try to copy Kohli or Faf du Plessis. His unique style will define his captaincy,” de Villiers said on social media.
Challenges Ahead for RCB
RCB has reached the IPL final thrice (2009, 2011, and 2016) but has yet to lift the trophy. Patidar’s biggest challenge will be to steer the team past the playoff hurdle and deliver the long-awaited title. Tonight’s match against KKR, led by a formidable Shreyas Iyer, will test his strategic skills and batting prowess right from the start.
Fans Buzzing on Social Media
Patidar is already trending on X, with fans expressing a mix of excitement and anticipation. One user tweeted, “If Patidar handles spin well, RCB could finally be champions in 2025!” Another fan jokingly wrote, “New captain, same old hope—let’s see if Patidar breaks the curse.” The buzz is palpable as supporters rally behind their new leader.
What to Expect in Tonight’s Opener?
The IPL 2025 opening clash between RCB and KKR begins at 7:30 PM IST today, March 22. RCB’s probable XI includes heavyweights like Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, with Patidar at the helm. Will he make a statement in his captaincy debut? Cricket fans are in for a thrilling showdown. Stay tuned with Digi Hind News for live updates and post-match analysis!
