According to a report from the Times of India, ace batter Virat Kohli is set to assume leadership responsibility of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Kohli stepped down from the role ahead of the 2022 edition of the cash-rich league, and was succeeded by Faf du Plessis.
Under Faf, the Bengaluru-based franchise managed to reach the playoffs on two out of three occasions. In the last edition, RCB managed to beat Chennai Super Kings in a thrilling fashion to enter the playoffs. However, they lost to Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator, and failed to get their hands on the elusive title.
The TOI report states that RCB were forced to make a leadership change due to Faf already being aged 40, and is not expected to be playing for the next two-three years.
However, Faf had a successful Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 campaign, where he led the St Lucia Kings to a title victory. The right-hander was also among key batters for the franchise, slamming 405 runs at a strike rate of 145.16.
Nevertheless, Kohli was pinned down as the man to lead the RCB side for the upcoming season. Moreover, the report indicates that Shubman Gill was on the radar of the franchise, but he is set to be retained by Gujarat Titans. The franchise can also splash big on Rishabh Pant, who is unlikely to be retained by Delhi Capitals.
What is Virat Kohli’s captaincy record for RCB in IPL?
Virat Kohli has been playing for the RCB side since the 2008 season. After displaying consistency in the initial few seasons and his rising international form, Kohli was appointed RCB’s captain ahead of the 2013 season.
Overall, Kohli has led the franchise on 143 occasions and secured victories in 66 of them. Under him, the side first reached the playoffs in 2015. Then, the following season witnessed them reaching the playoffs yet again. Although the side played well, they fell short by just eight runs in the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Kohli led the franchise to the playoffs in 2020 and 2021. The heart-breaking loss against Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2021 playoffs spoiled his plan of finally securing a title as a leader. Nevertheless, with the recent development, it might be time for Kohli to win his maiden IPL title with RCB.
Along with Kohli, the franchise is likely to retain the likes of Mohammed Siraj and Rajat Patidar. There has been uncertainty around the retention of Faf du Plessis, while Yash Dayal could be retained as an uncapped player.