Who is Rajat Patidar, RCB new captain for IPL 2025

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have appointed Rajat Patidar as their new captain for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The 31-year-old right-handed batsman from Madhya Pradesh takes over the leadership role, marking a significant milestone in his cricketing journey—from going unsold in auctions to becoming the captain of one of the most high-profile IPL franchises.

Former RCB captain Virat Kohli congratulated Patidar, expressing his full support:"Huge congratulations to Rajat!  You’ve earned this, and I’m so happy for you. I’ve seen your growth & leadership over the years. RCB fans, back him all the way"

 "I've seen Rajat evolve in the last couple of years as a player. He's 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 that he's taken and shown everyone that he has what it takes to lead this amazing franchise."

"I just wish him all the very best and I would request all the fans to show him absolute support, get right behind him and know that he will always and always do what's best for the team and this franchise. We must all get together and support him because regardless of what happens, who does what the most important thing is the team and the franchise."

"We all have a 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 and looking forward to see you all soon and have Rajat start off the season with a bang," says Virat Kohli in the RCB event where Rajat Patidar was unveiled as the side's new captain ahead of IPL 2025

A journey of resilience and determination

Patidar’s rise to captaincy is a testament to his perseverance, hard work, and ability to deliver under pressure. His performances in domestic cricket and the IPL have made him a key player for RCB over the past few seasons, ultimately earning him the captaincy.

Early life and domestic success

Born on June 1, 1993, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Patidar made a name for himself in domestic cricket with consistent performances. His leadership skills were evident in the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he captained Madhya Pradesh to the finals. Scoring 428 runs in 10 matches at an average of 61.14 and a strike rate of over 186, he proved his ability to lead from the front while maintaining an aggressive batting approach.

Breakthrough with RCB

Patidar joined RCB in 2021, but his defining moment came in IPL 2022, when he played a stunning innings of 112 off 54 balls* in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This knock made him the first uncapped player to score a century in an IPL playoff match and solidified his position as a match-winner.

His IPL record so far:

• Matches: 24
• Runs: 799
• Average: 34.73
• Strike Rate: 158.84
• Centuries: 1
• Fifties: 7

During IPL 2024, he was one of RCB’s key performers, scoring 395 runs in 13 matches at an explosive strike rate of 177, including five half-centuries.

International experience

Patidar’s IPL heroics earned him a place in the Indian national team. He made his ODI debut against South Africa in 2023 and later played his first Test match against England in early 2024. While his initial international performances were modest (63 runs in six Test innings), his domestic and IPL form suggest that he has the potential to establish himself at the highest level.

Captaincy and expectations

RCB’s decision to appoint Patidar as captain reflects their trust in his leadership, temperament, and cricketing acumen. He follows in the footsteps of Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Virat Kohli, and Faf du Plessis as the franchise’s leader.

With IPL 2025 approaching, Patidar faces the challenge of leading RCB to their maiden IPL title. His fearless batting, tactical understanding, and familiarity with the team’s core players make him a promising leader.

RCB fans will be eager to see if Patidar can translate his individual success into team glory. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on him to see if he can steer the team to its long-awaited triumph.