Last Updated:
In a video message, Virat Kohli praised Rajat Patidar and hoped the new captain will help RCB start the new IPL season with a bang.
Virat Kohli (left) and Rajat Patidar (Screengrab)
Virat Kohli, the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain, has extended warm wishes to Rajat Patidar who has been appointed as the new skipper of the franchise for the upcoming IPL 2025. Patidar, a top-order batter, will succeed Faf du Plessis into the role after the South African was released by the franchise last year.
In a video message that was played during an event held to announce Patidar’s appointment, Kohli said the batter deserves this opportunity to lead RCB.
“Rajat, firstly, I want to congratulate you,” Kohli said. “Wish you all the very best. Thank you for the way you have grown in this franchise and the way you have performed. 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,” said Kohli in a video message at the press conference.”
Kohli, while admitting that leading RCB, a franchise that is yet to win an IPL title, will be challenging but expects Patidar to grow into the role.
“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. And 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 as a player over the last couple of years. He’s got the chance to play for India,” Kohli said.
This will be Patidar’s first ever stint as the captain of an IPL franchise. In fact, he also led his domestic side Madhya Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy for the first time earlier this season.
Patidar led MP into the final of SMAT where they lost to Mumbai. He scored 428 runs during the competition at a strike-rate of 186.08.
“His (Patidar’s) 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 he’s shown everyone that he has what it takes to lead this amazing franchise. And 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, what’s best for this franchise,” Kohli said.
“And we must all get together and support him. Regardless of what happens, the most important thing is the team. And the most important thing is the franchise. And we all have a responsibility to work towards the growth of this amazing team and this amazing franchise. Sending my best wishes to him. And sending all the fans lots of love. And looking forward to see you all soon. And looking forward to have Rajat start off the season with a bang,” he concluded.
