Rajat Patidar, IPL 2025: Following the mega auction for the Indian Premier League 2025, there was considerable speculation regarding the appointment of a new captain for Royal Challengers Bangalore, especially after the release of their former captain, Faf du Plessis. Many anticipated that Virat Kohli might resume the captaincy; however, the franchise opted to place their trust in the young talent Rajat Patidar, naming him the captain for IPL 2025.

Patidar made an impressive debut as captain, leading his team to a 7-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders in the season’s opening match. This achievement also marked a significant milestone, as Patidar became the fifth player in RCB’s history to win his first match as captain, joining the ranks of Kevin Pietersen, Virat Kohli, Anil Kumble, and Daniel Vettori. Notably, Rajat Patidar is the seventh individual to take on the captaincy for RCB, and with the exception of Rahul Dravid and Faf du Plessis, all previous captains have won their inaugural match.

In pursuit of a target of 175 runs, Patidar, batting at number four, delivered a remarkable performance, scoring 34 runs off just 16 balls at an impressive strike rate of 212.50, including 5 fours and 1 six. Under Patidar’s leadership, RCB commenced IPL 2025 with a resounding victory, successfully chasing down the target in only 16.2 overs. The Player of the Match accolade went to Krunal Pandya, who claimed 3 wickets for 29 runs in 4 overs.