*Middle-order batsman calls it “a dream come true” as Kohli passes leadership baton during IPL 2025 season*
Bengaluru, May 17, 2025 – Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batsman Rajat Patidar has described being handed the team’s captaincy by Virat Kohli as the “proudest moment” of his cricketing career. The emotional transition occurred during RCB’s recent IPL match against Delhi Capitals when Kohli, the franchise’s longest-serving skipper, symbolically passed the leadership mantle to the 31-year-old during a strategic timeout.
The gesture, captured on broadcast cameras and widely shared on social media, has sparked discussions about RCB’s future leadership pipeline. Patidar, who joined RCB in 2022 and became their middle-order mainstay, revealed the significance of receiving this recognition from Indian cricket’s iconic leader.
A Full-Circle Moment
Speaking exclusively to ESPNCricinfo, Patidar recounted the moment: “Virat bhai handed me his cap during that timeout and said, ‘The future is yours to shape.’ As someone who grew up idolizing him, it was surreal.” The Indore-born player admitted he initially thought it was a tactical discussion until Kohli’s symbolic act became clear.
Cricket analysts note the timing holds special significance – Kohli had assumed RCB’s captaincy at 24 in 2013, while Patidar receives the honor at a similar career juncture following his consistent performances (412 runs this season at 148.75 strike rate).
Kohli’s Calculated Mentorship
While RCB’s official leadership remains with Faf du Plessis for IPL 2025, Kohli’s gesture is seen as part of his long-term mentorship role. The 36-year-old batting maestro has gradually transitioned into guiding younger players since stepping down as RCB’s full-time captain in 2021.
“Virat has been working closely with Rajat on handling pressure situations,” revealed RCB’s Director of Cricket Mike Hesson. “This public endorsement reflects our confidence in his leadership potential.”
Patidar’s Meteoric Rise
Patidar’s journey resonates with RCB’s ethos of nurturing domestic talent:
- 2022 Breakthrough: Scored a match-winning 112* in IPL Eliminator
- 2023 Setback: Missed entire season due to heel surgery
- 2024 Comeback: Played crucial knocks in RCB’s playoff campaign
- 2025 Form: Currently 3rd in RCB’s run charts behind Kohli and du Plessis
His calm demeanor under pressure – evidenced during last month’s tense chase against Mumbai Indians where he anchored an unbeaten 89 – has drawn comparisons with Kohli’s early career.
The Road Ahead
With RCB yet to announce their 2026 leadership, Patidar’s emergence offers an intriguing option. Former India selector Saba Karim believes: “He possesses the right temperament. This symbolic passing of the torch could mark RCB’s transition to an Indian core after years of overseas captains.”
As for Patidar, he remains focused on the present: “Right now, I just want to justify Virat bhai’s faith with my bat. Leadership is about earning respect through performances first.”
Conclusion
Kohli’s symbolic act transcends cricket – it represents the generational shift occurring across Indian cricket. For RCB fans, it sparks hope that Patidar might be the missing piece in their quest for that elusive IPL trophy.
