IPL 2025: RCB Explains Why Rajat Patidar Was Picked Over Senior Players Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Krunal Pandya as Captain

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IPL 2025: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have officially appointed Rajat Patidar as their captain for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, a decision that has been discussed widely among fans.

With experienced players like Virat Kohli, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Krunal Pandya in the squad, many expected one of them to take up the leadership role. However, RCB's Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, has provided a detailed explanation of why Patidar emerged as the preferred choice.

Bobat revealed that discussions about Patidar's leadership ambitions date back to last season. "My discussion with Rajat went back to last season when we talked a little bit about his captaincy aspirations. At the end of our conversation, it became quite clear to me that Rajat is quite keen about captaincy and he was proactively going to speak to his state (Madhya Pradesh) about captaincy," he said at the press conference post captaincy revelation.

Rajat Patidar has prior experience leading Madhya Pradesh in domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (T20) and Vijay Hazare Trophy (ODI). He played a crucial role in guiding Madhya Pradesh to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final in 2023, where they finished runners-up to Mumbai. His ability to thrive under pressure made him a standout candidate.

RCB's leadership transition also played a significant role in this decision. The franchise had to make a tough call regarding Faf du Plessis, who had been a commendable leader for the past three seasons. However, given his advancing age, RCB looked for a long-term option.

"The process itself goes back to the difficult decision we had to make about Faf du Plessis. He has been an absolute champion for this franchise as a player and as a leader. But unfortunately, given the aging state of his career, we had to think of somebody who can take us through this urgent cycle and maybe beyond," Bobat explained.

Why Not Virat Kohli, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, or Krunal Pandya?

While Kohli was a natural contender, RCB believed he didn't require the title to lead. "Of course, Virat was an option. He doesn't need a captaincy title to lead. He sets the tone with his energy. He leads by example with the bat, in the field, and through his work ethic," Bobat stated. He also confirmed that Kohli fully supported Patidar's appointment.

Other Indian candidates, including Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya, were also considered. "We observed other guys too, including Bhuvi, Krunal, and Jitesh Sharma, but in particular, we observed Rajat closely and how he played in pressure situations," Bobat said.

Beyond leadership qualities, Patidar's on-field performances further justified his selection. He was the second-highest run-scorer in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last season, amassing 428 runs in 10 matches at an impressive average of 61 and a strike rate of 186.08, only behind Ajinkya Rahane.

His growing stature within the franchise also played a crucial role. Having been with RCB since 2022, Patidar has earned the trust of the management and teammates, including Kohli. "Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, Rajat. The way you have grown in this franchise and the way you have performed, you've made a place in the hearts of all RCB fans. This is very well deserved," Kohli said in a video message.