Fans of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are in for an exciting twist as the team prepares for the IPL 2025 season with a major leadership change. In a move that’s sure to thrill supporters, Virat Kohli is set to reclaim the captaincy of RCB, reigniting hopes for the franchise’s elusive first IPL title. This announcement brings new energy to the camp, and Kohli’s fans will be delighted to see him return to a role where his dedication and passion for the team have always been evident.
Virat Kohli set to return to lead RCB
The 2025 IPL season will mark a new chapter for Kohli, who is stepping back into his former role as captain of RCB. Sources close to the team confirm that Kohli has already discussed his return to leadership with RCB’s management, expressing his commitment to guide the team through the new season. RCB fans, who have followed Kohli’s journey with the franchise since 2008, are overjoyed by the news, especially with the team’s renewed drive to capture its first IPL trophy.
Transition follows Faf du Plessis’ successful leadership stint
The leadership change follows Faf du Plessis‘ tenure as RCB’s captain from 2022 to 2024. The 40-year-old South African led RCB effectively, bringing experience and steady leadership to the franchise. However, with Du Plessis’ advancing age, RCB management has sought a familiar and capable leader to take over for the next IPL cycle. Kohli, a pillar of the team for over a decade, was the natural choice to step into this role once again. This transition also comes just before the mega auction, allowing RCB to enter the bidding with a strong captain in place and clear vision for the future.
Kohli’s track record as RCB skipper
Kohli’s previous captaincy with RCB spanned from 2013 to 2021, during which he led the team to four playoff appearances, including a memorable run to the final in 2016. That year, RCB had an exceptional season, but narrowly missed lifting the trophy, falling to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final. Despite stepping down from the RCB captaincy in 2021 and handing over the reins to Du Plessis, Kohli remained deeply involved in the team’s strategy and decisions. His unwavering enthusiasm on the field, often seen advising teammates and supporting du Plessis during intense moments, has kept him in a leadership role, unofficially, within the squad.
Also READ: “It was when…,”: Glenn Maxwell reveals the story behind Virat Kohli blocking him on Instagram
Loyalty and dedication towards RCB
Kohli has made it clear that his loyalty lies with RCB, stating on multiple occasions that he intends to retire from the IPL as an RCB player. Despite receiving offers and interest from other franchises, the 35-year-old batter has always emphasized his connection to Bengaluru and his commitment to finishing his IPL journey with RCB. His dedication to the team is evident, as he remains one of the few players in IPL history to have stayed with a single franchise since the league’s inception.
A new era for RCB with Kohli as captain
The 2025 season promises to be a defining one for RCB, with the upcoming mega auction and Kohli’s return to captaincy setting the stage for an exciting journey. Known for his fierce competitive spirit, Kohli’s comeback as leader brings an experienced and familiar presence to RCB, a team that has come close to IPL glory but has yet to clinch the trophy. With the support of loyal fans and a determined captain, RCB will look to break past limitations and finally achieve their championship dreams.