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'Going To Lead You...,' Virat Kohli Urges RCB Fans To Support Captain Rajat Patidar In IPL 2025

Soumyajit Dutta

Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.com]Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.com]

Virat Kohli, the iconic face of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has wholeheartedly endorsed the franchise’s newly appointed captain, Rajat Patidar, labelling him the cornerstone of RCB’s future. With Patidar stepping into the role following Faf du Plessis’s departure, RCB enters a fresh chapter

Kohli’s unwavering support for the young leader comes amid a pivotal transition for the team, which has long chased its maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title.

Virat Kohli Shows Faith On Patidar

Kohli’s faith in the 30-year-old batter-turned-skipper highlights the franchise’s renewed focus on building a legacy beyond its veteran core, reigniting hope among its passionate fanbase. Speaking at RCB’s Unbox event, Kohli rallied behind Patidar.

“The guy who is going to come next is the guy who's going to lead you for a long time. So, give him all the love you can. He's an amazing talent; he's a great player; we have all seen that. He has got a great head on his shoulders, and he will do a great job for this amazing franchise and take the team forward. He has got everything that's required.”

Reflecting on his own bond with RCB, Kohli shared how he loves keep coming back to the team every season and how excited he is about this new season.

“It feels amazing to be back. The excitement and happiness is like every other season. I have been here for 18 years and absolutely love RCB. We have an amazing squad this time around. A lot of talent in the team. I am personally very excited about this season.”

Patidar Acknowledges RCB Stars

Patidar, humbled by the responsibility, acknowledged the weight of leading a franchise steeped in star power. 

“Legends like Virat bhai, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle have played for RCB. I grew up watching them. From the start, I have loved the franchise a lot. I am more happy that I got a new role to lead one of the biggest teams in T20 cricket.”

Earlier, in 2024, Patidar also acknowledged how Virat Kohli impacted his playing style and possibly influenced his leadership transition.

"When I was batting with Virat Kohli bhai, he giving me that clarity and how can I play and approch the game. Batting with him it's learning a lot".

As RCB gears up for another campaign guided by Patidar and bolstered by Kohli’s belief, fans will be banking on ending the team's title drought as they face KKR on March 22 at Eden Gardens for their campaign opener.