There have been strong speculations that former franchise skipper and star batter Virat Kohli might takeover the captaincy reins once again
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is one of the few teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) who is yet to lift their maiden title. Ahead of the next IPL 2025 season as they set their sights on the trophy again, the RCB management will have the crucial task of picking their next leader after Faf du Plessis was let go ahead of the retention deadline.
Interestingly, there have been speculations that former franchise skipper and star batter Virat Kohli might takeover the captaincy reins once again. However, RCB director of cricket, Mo Babat, has downplayed those rumours.
Echoing on the same lines, former India cricketer Robin Uthappa has namedropped the player whom RCB should contemplate handing over the leadership responsibilities.
Uthappa said on JioCinema, “I think they should look at Rajat Patidar to take over that role because it seems like you need a new leader after two years. So, you might as well do it now to get ahead of the curve and build a captain for the next three to five years. Rajat is one of those players who can actually play that role for them.”
Rajat Patidar proved his importance to the team in the 2024 season, following a notable absence in 2023 due to an Achilles heel injury. He became a crucial contributor to RCB’s middle order, amassing 395 runs in 15 games and playing a key role in their remarkable recovery during the second half of the season. Apart from Virat Kohli, Patidar emerged as one of the most sought-after Indian batters in the squad.
Notably, Patidar was the second player on RCB’s retention list, following Kohli, with the franchise securing him for INR 11 crore. Since making his debut in 2021, he has featured in 27 matches for the team.
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His impressive IPL performances boosted his domestic career, earning him a call-up to the national team. He represented India in three Tests and one ODI and is currently playing for Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy.
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