IPL 2025: Full List of RCB Captains as Jitesh Sharma Leads against SRH

Jitesh Sharma is set to lead Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2025 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad today (May 23).

Since its inception in 2008, RCB have been one of the most followed franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), known as much for its passionate fanbase as for its fluctuating fortunes.

IPL 2025 Full List of RCB Captains as Jitesh Sharma Leads against SRH

Over the years, the franchise has seen several captains at the helm - each bringing a unique style of leadership and contributing to the team's evolving identity. Here's a detailed look at all the RCB captains across seasons and how they fared:

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Captains: Full List of RCB Captains

1. Rahul Dravid (2008)

RCB's first captain, Rahul Dravid, was appointed for the inaugural season. Known for his calm and methodical approach, Dravid led a team with a heavy Test-match core. However, the side struggled in the fast-paced T20 format and finished seventh. Dravid stepped down from captaincy after the first season.

2. Kevin Pietersen (2009)

The England star was bought for a record price and made captain in 2009. Pietersen's tenure was short-lived - he led in the first six matches before leaving for national duty. Under him, RCB won just 2 games, and he handed over the reins mid-season.

3. Anil Kumble (2009-2010)

Veteran spinner Anil Kumble took over from Pietersen in 2009 and led RCB to the IPL final that year. His shrewd tactical understanding and calm demeanour brought structure to the team. He continued as captain in 2010, guiding them to the semifinals again, and retired from all forms of cricket after that season.

4. Daniel Vettori (2011-2012)

Former New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori took over the leadership in 2011. He led RCB to the final that year, with Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers forming a lethal core. However, 2012 was underwhelming, and Vettori passed the baton to Virat Kohli in 2013.

5. Virat Kohli (2011-2021)

Virat Kohli began as stand-in captain during Vettori's absence in 2011 and officially became full-time captain in 2013. His reign is the longest in RCB history. While Kohli's passion and aggression were unquestionable, results didn't follow consistently. Under him, RCB reached the finals once (2016), playoffs in a few seasons, but also ended at the bottom of the table multiple times. He stepped down after IPL 2021.

6. Shane Watson (2017, stand-in)

Watson briefly captained RCB in the 2017 season when Kohli was injured at the start of the campaign. However, the stint was short and forgettable, with the team finishing last that year.

7. Faf du Plessis (2022-2024)

South African veteran Faf du Plessis was appointed captain ahead of the 2022 season after Kohli stepped down. He brought a composed and strategic style of leadership. Under him, RCB made the playoffs in 2022, maintained consistency in 2023, and showed renewed discipline and tactical flexibility.

8. Dinesh Karthik (2024, stand-in)

Dinesh Karthik captained RCB in a few matches during the 2024 season when du Plessis was sidelined due to injury. Though temporary, his leadership brought a fresh dimension, especially in high-pressure situations, leveraging his vast experience.