Virat Kohli issues an official statement on Rajat Patidar becoming the new RCB captain instead of him

In a recent development, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have named Rajat Patidar as the new captain for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season. Virat Kohli, the former captain and iconic figure of RCB, congratulated Patidar on his appointment, adding that he has earned the captaincy of the team.

The Royal Challengers were searching for a new leader after releasing Faf du Plessis ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. Many expected Virat Kohli to return to the role, given his vast experience with the team. However, RCB announced Rajat Patidar, who has been with the team since 2022, as the captain.

This Is Very Well Deserved - Virat Kohli to Rajat Patidar

In a video posted by Royal Challengers Bengaluru on X (formerly Twitter), Virat Kohli said that Rajat Patidar deserved the captaincy, with the entire team standing behind him. He wished Patidar continued growth and success in the position.

"Rajat, firstly I want to congratulate you. Wish you all the very best. Thank you for the way you have grown in this franchise and the way you have performed," said Kohli in a video message at the press conference.

"You have really made a place in the hearts of all the fans of RCB all over India. And they get really excited to watch you play. So, this is very well deserved. And to tell you that myself and the other team members, will be right behind you. And you will have all our support to grow into this role," he added.

𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬! 💌

“Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, Rajat”: Virat Kohli

“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.”… pic.twitter.com/dgjDLm8ZCN

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 13, 2025

You've Earned the Right to Be in This Position - Virat Kohli

The 36-year-old stated that Patidar has earned the right to lead the team. He said that taking the franchise forward is a great honor and backed Patidar to grow stronger in his leadership journey. Kohli also praised Patidar’s evolution as a player over the past two years.

"Of course, it's a big responsibility. I've done this for many years. And Faf's done it for the last few years. And to be seen as the guy who will take this franchise forward, I'm sure it's a huge honour for you. I'm very, very happy for you. You have earned the right to be in this position. And I'm sure you'll grow from strength to strength. I've seen Rajat evolve in the last couple of years as a player. He's got the chance to play for India," he added.

Virat Kohli Asks Fans to Support Rajat Patidar as RCB Captain

Virat Kohli is excited to see Patidar lead RCB into the new season. He urged all RCB fans to fully support Rajat Patidar in his new role as captain. Kohli hoped he could be the first RCB captain to lead the team to an IPL title.

“I just wish him all the best, and request all the fans to show him support and get behind him,” Kohli said.

“We must all get behind him and support him. The most important thing is the team and the franchise, so we should get behind him. Looking forward to seeing Rajat start off the new season with a bang."

Rajat Patidar joined RCB in 2022. He played a key role in guiding Madhya Pradesh to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 final, where they were defeated by Mumbai. Patidar was the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, with 428 runs from 10 matches at an average of 61 and a strike rate of 186.08.

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