Virat Kohli has initiated a new chapter for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by endorsing Rajat Patidar as the franchise's captain, expressing confidence that the right-handed batsman will lead the team for an extended period in the Indian Premier League (IPL). With the IPL 2025 season approaching, Patidar's ability to guide RCB towards its first IPL championship remains to be seen.

During the RCB Unbox Event on Monday, Kohli praised Patidar as an "incredible talent" with a "sound mind."

The former RCB captain urged fans to rally behind Patidar and show their support throughout the tournament. Many anticipated that Kohli would assume the captaincy following the departure of Faf du Plessis, but RCB surprised everyone by appointing Patidar as their new leader.

In his introduction of Patidar, Kohli stated, "The individual coming next is someone who will lead you for a long time. So, please extend him all the support you can."

"He is an exceptional talent and a remarkable player, as we all know. Moreover, he possesses a great mindset, which will enable him to excel in this prestigious franchise and advance the team. He has all the qualities needed," he continued.

As Kohli took the stage, he was met with an enthusiastic reception from the packed crowd at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The audience's cheers were so loud that the host, Danish Sait, had to request them to allow Kohli to speak.

When allowed to address the crowd, Rajat Patidar expressed his excitement about leading one of the premier teams in franchise cricket, having grown up watching legends like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle playing for RCB.

"Icons such as Virat bhai, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle have represented RCB. I have admired them since childhood. My affection for the franchise has always been strong, and I am thrilled to take on this new role leading one of the most significant teams in T20 cricket," Patidar remarked.

What does Virat Kohli make of the squad?

In the recent mega auction, RCB successfully secured the talents of Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Tim David, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, and Josh Hazlewood. Consequently, it is understandable that Virat Kohli holds a positive outlook regarding RCB's prospects this season.

"This squad is truly remarkable. We have some incredibly exciting players and a wealth of talent within the team. I am very eager to contribute and assist the team in any way I can," stated Virat Kohli.

Kohli has been a part of RCB since the IPL's inception, marking his 18th season with the franchise.

"It feels wonderful to return to this beautiful city and engage with such fantastic fans. The excitement and joy are as strong as ever. After 18 years, my love for this place remains unchanged," Kohli expressed.

RCB is set to commence their IPL 2025 journey on Saturday, March 22, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, facing off against the reigning champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

RCB squad: Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Liam Livingstone, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Nuwan Thushara, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethel, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh, Mohit Rathee.

Read Also: Six-Hitting Against Spin Isn't Natural, It's Hard Work: Shreyas Iyer

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!