Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has finally announced that Rajit Patidar is now captain. This decision came out on February 13, 2025, which was quite a long wait. Many fans and even people in the cricket industry have been discussing this for a while, with Patidar and other serious captain considerations on the list, like Virat Kohli.
RCB Holds Press Conference to Announce Team Captain
“Who is our next captain? It is a critical decision for the RCB. We have had legends. This decision is not easy at all. It was deliberated internally and externally. We feel the decision is good for the franchise – over the next couple of years,” Rajat Menon started the RCB press conference.
Patidar was then announced, taking the blue blazer and red cap as the captain. RCB’s coach, Andy Flower, and RCB director, Mo Mobat, joined him at the conference.
When discussing why they decided to give Patidar the role, Flower said, “Three main things to share. First, IPL needs calmness and simplicity. It will serve him well.
“The second thing is he’s quiet but cares about the people he’s around. That means he will instantly have the respect and care of other people, and as a leader, people will follow behind him. The third, he has a stubborn and steeliness about him. You see it in how he plays and takes on the game.”
Mobat also talked about their decision process. “Andy and I felt blessed we had many options. We were keen on an Indian option because someone with local insight would be helpful to us. Of course, Virat was an option.
“Virat doesn’t need a captaincy title to lead. It just comes naturally to him. He leads as an example with the bat. He leads in the field. He sets the tone with his energy. He likes a scrap. The way he practices nutrition, he is a leader. Pretty sure Rajat will lean on him, too. Virat had so much energy for the decision. He knows Rajat is deserving of this captaincy.”
True enough, Kohli shared the same enthusiasm for this Patidar’s captainship. They played a video of him wishing Patidar the best during the conference. “The way you’ve grown, you’ve made a place in the hearts of fans all over India. This is very well deserved. Other team members and I will be behind you. It is a big responsibility,” Kohli said.
“To be seen who will take the franchise forward is a big honour for you. I am sure you will grow strength to strength.”
What Patidar Brings to the Table as RCB Captain
As a player, just like Flower said, Patidar has consistently demonstrated remarkable composure, skill, and adaptability, which will be crucial in his new leadership role. His aggressive yet controlled batting style also sets a positive example for the team. He’s been with the team since 2021, so he should know his team’s strengths and weaknesses.
Patidar is at the helm, and RCB could be a dark horse this season. Betting odds shifted slightly in favour of RCB after this announcement. If you’re looking into betting on the team to win this year’s IPL, you can use the 10CRIC IPL online satta app and double your winnings with their exciting bonuses.
Patidar’s leadership style will likely differ from that of previous RCB captains. He may bring a fresh perspective and a more collaborative approach. This is what Mobat also talked about at the press conference, as they expect him to bring freshness to the team.
Patidar also spoke about this and said, “We have a lot of experience in the team and leaders. My way of captaincy is different. I will back my instincts. I will seek support from the other leaders in taking the team forward.”
While many have been surprised about Patidar’s captaincy, some have already predicted this as a possibility. He’s always been a natural leader and a key player for RCB, and there’s also the pressure to deliver RCB’s first IPL title. What’s good is that he has the support within the team to make this happen.
In the End
Indeed, it will be an interesting year for Royal Challengers Bangalore. If they bag the IPL championship title this year, it will be a big moment for Patidar’s career. RCB has never won an IPL title since its inception, so this will be a long time coming.
Don’t miss out on how RCB will work its way through the tournament. Catch the Indian Premier League on Star Sports and JioHotstar from March 22 to May 25, 2025.
