Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has voiced his support for the newly appointed Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain, Rajat Patidar, suggesting he is the right choice to lead the team for a considerable period. Kohli, a long-standing figure with RCB since the inception of the IPL in 2008 and captain for over ten years, remains a key personality for the franchise. Patidar takes over the captaincy from Faf du Plessis, who has moved to Delhi Capitals for the current season.
“This young player possesses the qualities to guide the team effectively for years to come. I am confident in his capabilities. He has all the necessary attributes for success,” Kohli stated to RCB fans at the team’s Unbox event on Monday.
Despite RCB’s history without an IPL title, Kohli maintains a positive outlook for the team’s prospects.
“Returning to the team environment is always exciting, and my enthusiasm is as high as in previous seasons. Having been with RCB for 18 years, my affection for this team is unwavering. We have a remarkably talented squad this season, and I am personally very optimistic about what we can achieve,” Kohli added.
This IPL season marks Kohli’s first appearance in the league since stepping down from T20 Internationals.
Patidar, standing beside Kohli, expressed his honor in assuming the captaincy of RCB.
“It’s a privilege to follow in the footsteps of legendary cricketers like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle, who have all represented RCB. I have been a fan of this franchise since my early days in cricket. I am incredibly pleased to take on this new responsibility of leading one of the premier teams in T20 cricket,” Patidar commented, highlighting his pride in leading RCB.
