Credit: BCCI/IPL
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended their 18-year drought after they won their maiden IPL title defeating Punjab Kings in the final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3, 2025. It was Rajat Patidar who led RCB to their first title that too in his first season as a captain. However, before Patidar was announced as captain ahead of the season, there were several rumours that former captain Virat Kohli could return in the leadership role after the franchise released Faf du Plessis.
However, Rajat Patidar, who has been a part of RCB since 2021, went on to become captain of the franchise ahead of the 18th edition in 2025. Before handing over the captaincy to Patidar, RCB’s Director of Cricket Mo Bobat consulted with Virat Kohli and the former captain showed his full support for Patidar. Mo revealed that Kohli played a crucial role in helping Patidar to take over the captaincy.
It was brilliant to have Virat's blessing and his approval: Mo Bobat
Although Rajat Patidar was captain of RCB in IPL 2025, Virat Kohli showed his full supports and shared his insights as a senior. Mo Bobat revealed that Kohli instantly agreed when he got to know that Patidar is going to be the captain. It turned out to be a great decision for RCB as they finally lifted the trophy after several heartbreaks from the last 18 years.
We spoke with Virat Kohli that Patidar was going to be the new captain and Virat said, '100% I'm there to help. It's in all of our interests if Rajat succeeds. Let's give this a go'. It was brilliant to have Virat's blessing and his approval," Mo Bobat said in his interview with Cricbuzz.
