Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli has sent a heartfelt message to Rajat Patidar, who has been named the new captain of the franchise ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Patidar will take over from Faf du Plessis, who was not retained by the franchise.
RCB officially announced Patidar’s appointment on Thursday morning, sharing a video on social media where Kohli personally congratulated him and extended his support. Kohli, who captained RCB for nearly a decade before stepping down, emphasized the significance of the role and expressed confidence in Patidar’s leadership.
Kohli’s Special Message for Patidar
“I am here to inform everyone, like the others will do as well, that Rajat Patidar is going to be the new captain of RCB. Rajat, firstly, I want to congratulate and wish you all the very best. The way you have grown in the franchise and the way you have performed, you have really made a place in the hearts of all the fans of RCB, all over India. They get excited to watch you play. So, this is very well deserved. Myself and the other team members will be right behind you and you’ll have all our support,” Kohli said in the video.
Kohli also acknowledged the responsibilities that come with leading a franchise like RCB, sharing his own experiences and those of Faf du Plessis, who captained the team for the past few seasons.
“To grow into this role, of course, it is a big responsibility, and I have done this for many years. Faf’s done it for the last few years. To be seen as the guy who will take this franchise forward, I am sure this is a great honour for you. I am very, very happy for you. You’ve earned the right to be in this position, and I am sure you will grow from strength to strength. I have seen Rajat evolve as a player in the last couple of years, got the chance to play for India. His game has improved many levels in the last couple of years. The way he has led his state team as well and the responsibility he has taken, you’ve shown everyone what it takes to lead this amazing franchise,” Kohli added.
A New Era for RCB Under Patidar’s Leadership
Patidar’s rise within the franchise has been remarkable, earning admiration for his performances over the past few seasons. His match-winning knocks and consistency have cemented his place as a key figure in RCB’s squad, making him a fitting choice to lead the team.
Kohli urged RCB fans to rally behind Patidar, emphasizing that the success of the franchise depends on collective support and unity.
“I just wish him all the very best and I would request all the fans to support him, get absolutely behind him. We know that he will do what’s best for the team, what’s best for the franchise, and we must all get together to support him because, regardless of what happens, who does what, the most important thing is the team and franchise. We all have that responsibility to work towards the growth of this amazing team and franchise. Sending my best wishes to him, and sending all the fans lots of love. Looking forward to seeing you and looking forward to having Rajat start off the season with a bang,” Kohli concluded.
RCB’s Leadership Transition
Patidar’s appointment comes at a crucial time for RCB as they seek to restructure and rebuild for the future. Under du Plessis, the team showed resilience but was unable to clinch an elusive IPL title. With Patidar at the helm, RCB will hope for renewed energy and fresh strategies to achieve their championship aspirations.
As RCB gears up for the upcoming IPL season, Patidar’s leadership will be closely watched. With the backing of Kohli, team management, and the fans, he will look to lead RCB with passion and determination, aiming to bring glory to the franchise.
The 2025 IPL season promises to be an exciting chapter for RCB, and all eyes will be on Rajat Patidar as he embarks on his journey as captain.
