Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has identified Rajat Patidar as a key player to watch in the highly anticipated IPL 2025 season opener between the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Patidar, who joined RCB in 2021 and was re-signed as a replacement in 2022, has now taken on the role of captain. This stylish batsman carries the significant responsibility of leading his team in pursuit of the IPL trophy, which has remained elusive for RCB since the tournament began. The franchise has reached the finals three times—in 2009, 2011, and 2016—but has yet to secure a victory.

In preparation for the upcoming season, RCB has built a well-rounded squad during the mega auction, retaining only three players from the previous season: Virat Kohli, Patidar, and Yash Dayal.

Chopra shared his insights regarding the IPL 2025 opener, emphasizing that Patidar could be pivotal to RCB's success this season. 

"First and foremost, I would highlight Rajat Patidar and his performance. Phil Salt is returning to familiar territory, having gained significant attention here and subsequently earning a lucrative contract. KKR was unable to retain him, and RCB seized the opportunity. He has a fondness for this ground. Keep an eye on Rajat Patidar, as his performance could very well determine the fate of RCB this season," he remarked.

The 31-year-old demonstrated his batting skills against spin last season, excelling in the middle overs with his ability to hit sixes. He amassed 395 runs at an impressive strike rate of 177.13, which included five half-centuries.

“Virat Kohli is there for sure, but…”

Chopra also discussed the batting lineup of RCB, emphasizing the importance of Kohli once again, while highlighting Patidar as a key player to keep an eye on.

"He must excel against spin. While Virat Kohli is undoubtedly a significant presence, there’s also Liam Livingstone on one side and Phil Salt at the top of the order. It appears that Jacob Bethell may be included, as he has been practising extensively. Therefore, Rajat Patidar is the player to watch," Chopra explained.

In other news, rain is anticipated to disrupt the season's opening match on Saturday. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a warning regarding unstable weather conditions throughout West Bengal, attributed to a trough stretching from central Odisha to Vidarbha, along with a wind convergence over eastern India, further influenced by an anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal at lower tropospheric levels.

Read Also: IPL 2025 and KKR: A Story of Transformation and Consistency

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