IPL 2025: Sanjay Manjrekar on Why RCB Chose Patidar Over Kohli for Captaincy

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), a team historically led by legendary cricketers, has made an unexpected choice by appointing young batsman Rajat Patidar as captain for the upcoming season. The decision has sparked widespread debate in cricketing circles, especially since Virat Kohli remains a key figure in the squad.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar shared his perspective on the matter, stating that RCB deliberately avoided handing the captaincy back to Kohli to prevent additional pressure on him. "RCB did not want to put extra burden on Kohli, and that’s why they chose not to appoint him as captain," Manjrekar said.

After Faf du Plessis stepped down, many speculated that the 36-year-old Kohli would reclaim the leadership role. However, the franchise instead opted for Patidar, who had led Madhya Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final. In that match against Mumbai, Patidar played a stellar knock of 81* but could not prevent his team's defeat.

Speaking to Star Sports, Manjrekar praised RCB’s decision, reiterating that the franchise aimed to relieve Kohli of leadership pressure. He also predicted strong performances from both Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the upcoming IPL season.

The IPL 2025 season is set to begin on March 22, with the opening match between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and RCB at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.