Krunal Pandya To Lead RCB? 3 Potential Captains Of Virat Kohli In IPL 2025

Sakshi Sharma

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya (Source:@ImTanujSingh,x.com)Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya (Source:@ImTanujSingh,x.com)

Royal Challengers Bangaluru (RCB) has long been one of the most high-profile franchises in the IPL. Despite having consistently competed at the top level, the elusive IPL trophy has so far slipped through their fingers. With their eyes still firmly set on that maiden title, RCB has entered the  IPL 2025 with a refresh squad at the Abadi Al Johar Arena in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Ahead of the auction, RCB has made strategic decisions and retained Virat Kohli (Rs 21 crore), Rajat Patidar (Rs 11 crore), and Yash Dayal (Rs 5 crore). After this retained player, RCB was left with a purse of Rs 83 crore.The franchise has made some impactful buys during the IPL 2025 auction that include all-rounder Liam Livingstone (Rs 8.75 crore), wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt (Rs 11.50 crore), Jitesh Sharma (Rs 11 crore). 

In bowling department, Josh Hazlewood (Rs 12.5 crore), Suyash Sharma (Rs 2.60 crore) alongside Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Rs 10.75 crore) has been potential buys for RCB in IPL 2025. 

But the question is, who will be the captain for RCB for the 2025 edition after releasing their captain, Faf du Plessis? It is important to note that there are several reports that Virat Kohli might lead the team. But if Kohli is not appointed as the captain then in this article, let's take a look at three potential captaincy options for RCB in IPL 2025. 

Bhuvneshwar Kumar 

  • Bhuvneshwar Kumar, one of India’s most experienced fast bowlers, has been bought by RCB for a price of 10.75 crore in IPL 2025 auction. His precision, skill in the death overs, and ability to swing the ball will definitely make him an important player for RCB. 
  •  Bhuvneshwar is no stranger to leadership. He has led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) during his time with the franchise. His calm and composed nature under pressure makes him a solid candidate for captaincy for RCB. And teams often go for India players as their captain and this could be one another reason that he might be appointed as the captain for the franchise. 

Krunal Pandya 

  • Krunal Pandya is known for his ability to finish games and has earned this reputation during his time with the Mumbai Indians. Furthermore, beyond his playing abilities, Krunal has shown leadership potential. He has captained the LSG and led them to three wins in six matches in the 2023 season. 
  • Most recently, he has been leading Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. It is not wrong to say that the all-rounder has the potential for captaincy, and RCB's move to get him in the squad because he might be appointed as the captain for the franchise. 

Jitesh Sharma 

  • Jitesh Sharma is all set to don the RCB jersey in the upcoming season. The 31-years old, he has firmly established himself as a skilled finisher over the last few years. Furthermore, the franchise is on the lookout for a new captain, and while Jitesh may not have extensive captaincy experience, his previous role as vice-captain for Punjab Kings could be considered. 
  • Moreover, the franchises often prefers to have an Indian player at the helm, and Jitesh fits this criterion perfectly. Given these factors, there are chances that he will be likely appointed as the captain, leading the team with a fresh perspective.