Srikkanth believes, Virat Kohli declined RCB captaincy to “focus on batting”, will be guiding force for Rajat Patidar
Former India chief selector K Srikkanth believes Virat Kohli declined the RCB captaincy to concentrate on his batting, leading to RajatPatidar’s appointment for IPL 2025. Srikkanth suggests this decision followed discussions between Kohli and RCB management.
Mo Bobat, RCB’s team director, confirmed Kohli was an option but emphasized that Kohli’s leadership extends beyond a formal title .Bobat noted Kohli’s inherent leadership qualities and his ability to lead by example through his performance.
Srikkanth likened Patidar’s situation to MS Dhoni’s appointment as T20I captain in 2007, noting lower expectations could benefit him. He anticipates Patidar will consult Kohli, who will serve as a guiding force.
Patidar, who joined RCB in 2022, has become a key batter, scoring 799 runs in 28 matches with a strike rate of 158.85. He captained Madhya Pradesh in domestic tournaments. RCB opted for Patidar, placing a long-term bet on his leadership potential.