The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made headlines ahead of the IPL 2025 auction by releasing their captain Faf du Plessis. Surprisingly, they didn’t chase a replacement, sparking rumors that Virat Kohli might return as captain after three years.
For fans, the thought of Kohli leading his beloved team one last time is thrilling. After stepping away from leadership, he may now have a fresh perspective and a better understanding of the role. However, this move isn’t without risk. Under du Plessis, RCB seemed free from the highs and lows of Kohli’s captaincy era, and Kohli himself appeared to bat more comfortably without the extra pressure.
If Kohli isn’t a certainty for the role, RCB has options. Their current squad is strong, and with guidance from Andy Flower and Mo Bobat, a new, younger captain could thrive. Below are three potential candidates for the RCB captaincy:
1. Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar is a standout performer for RCB and a natural candidate for captaincy. The 31-year-old middle-order batter has shown he can handle pressure. Leading Madhya Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he has guided his team to three consecutive wins, including two match-winning half-centuries.
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Patidar is familiar with the RCB setup and understands the team dynamics. Fans already appreciate his contributions, and with Flower and Bobat’s support, he could bring out the best in the revamped squad. His aggressive yet composed style mirrors the energy RCB displayed last season, making him a strong choice to lead.
2. Krunal Pandya
Krunal Pandya might seem like a left-field pick, but he brings valuable experience as a leader. He has successfully captained Baroda in domestic cricket, a team known for punching above its weight. Baroda is currently dominating the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy under his guidance.
Krunal’s aggressive personality and sharp cricketing mind make him a strong contender. As a left-arm spinner, he’ll likely feature in most matches, especially on the spin-friendly Chinnaswamy pitch. While past controversies with teammates like Deepak Hooda could raise concerns, the structured environment at RCB under Flower and Bobat should address such issues.
3. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Bhuvneshwar Kumar is a seasoned pacer with leadership experience. He has captained T20 teams in Uttar Pradesh and led Sunrisers Hyderabad during challenging times. Currently, he is captaining Uttar Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where the team has already secured two wins.
As a bowler, Bhuvneshwar excels in high-pressure situations, delivering in both powerplay and death overs. His calm demeanour and ability to communicate effectively with teammates make him a reliable leader. He could serve as a tactical anchor on the field, bridging the management’s vision with the players.
Conclusion
RCB has an exciting opportunity to pick a new leader who aligns with their evolving strategy. Whether it’s Kohli returning for a final chapter or a fresh face like Patidar, Krunal, or Bhuvneshwar stepping up, the choice will shape the team’s future. With a strong squad and experienced coaches in place, RCB fans can look forward to a promising season ahead.
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