
Was Blank When Kohli Told Me to Hold RCB Captaincy Plaque: Patidar
Rajat Patidar, the current captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), recently shared a heartwarming story about being handed the franchise’s captaincy plaque by none other than Virat Kohli. The 31-year-old wicket-keeper batsman revealed that he was initially left speechless when Kohli presented him with the prestigious award during an event ahead of IPL 2025.
In an exclusive interview with News18, Patidar recalled the moment when Kohli handed him the captaincy plaque, saying, “I was blank when he told me to hold the RCB captaincy plaque. While giving it to me, he said, ‘You deserve it, you earned it.’ So I felt a little bit okay.” The emotional moment was a testament to the bond between Patidar and Kohli, who has been a mentor and a role model for the young cricketer.
Patidar’s journey with RCB began in 2020, when he was signed by the franchise as a replacement for the injured Quinton de Kock. Since then, he has emerged as a key player for the team, showcasing his exceptional batting skills and wicket-keeping abilities. The 31-year-old has also been a part of India’s domestic circuit, playing for the Madhya Pradesh cricket team and leading the side in several tournaments.
The captaincy plaque, which is a symbol of excellence and leadership, is a prestigious award that is presented to the captain of RCB for their outstanding performance and dedication to the team. Kohli, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the world, has been a dominant force in RCB’s history, leading the team to several victories and setting numerous records.
Patidar’s humility and gratitude towards Kohli were evident in his words, as he acknowledged the former captain’s guidance and support. “I learn as much as I can from him,” Patidar said, emphasizing the importance of learning from experienced players like Kohli. The young cricketer has often spoken about the invaluable lessons he has learned from Kohli, who has been a mentor to him since his early days in the Indian Premier League.
The bond between Patidar and Kohli is a testament to the strong team culture that exists within RCB. The franchise has a history of producing talented players who have gone on to represent India at the international level. Patidar’s rise to fame is a perfect example of the opportunities that RCB provides to young cricketers.
Kohli’s leadership and guidance have been instrumental in the development of Patidar’s career. The former captain has always been known for his exceptional leadership skills, which have inspired countless players to strive for excellence. Patidar’s story is a testament to Kohli’s ability to motivate and guide young players, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of mentorship in cricket.
As RCB prepares for the upcoming season of the IPL, Patidar’s story serves as a source of inspiration for the team. The young cricketer’s humility and gratitude towards Kohli are a reminder of the values that RCB stands for – teamwork, dedication, and excellence.
In conclusion, Patidar’s story is a heartwarming tale of a young cricketer’s journey to the top, with the guidance and support of a legendary player like Kohli. The bond between Patidar and Kohli is a testament to the strong team culture that exists within RCB, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of mentorship in cricket.