Virat Kohli’s RCB Captaincy Return Rumors Quashed by Franchise
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 retention lists were unveiled, speculation ran rampant about Virat Kohli’s potential return as captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). However, RCB’s Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, has dismissed these rumors, stating that no decision has been made regarding the team’s captaincy.
Kohli relinquished the RCB captaincy after the 2021 season, making way for a new leader. The franchise entrusted the responsibility to former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis, who led the team for three seasons. However, with Du Plessis released from the squad, the question of RCB’s captaincy in 2025 remains unanswered.
“I am sorry to disappoint everybody listening. We have not made any decision related to captaincy or on that (Kohli returning as skipper) as yet. We are open to options. The only obvious decision we made was not to retain Faf. He did a great job last year and the year before that. So from our perspective, we will keep a very open mind when we head to the auction,” Bobat told JioCinema after the IPL 2025 retentions were announced.
Despite the lack of official confirmation, reports suggest that Kohli is eager to reclaim the team’s captaincy. However, no concrete decision has been made on the matter.
Meanwhile, RCB coach Andy Flower has explained the rationale behind retaining Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal ahead of the new season.
“We are thrilled to retain Yash Dayal, an extraordinary talent whose career is on an upward trajectory. His unique ability as a left-arm bowler, capable of swinging the ball in both directions, adds a valuable dimension to our bowling attack – one that is increasingly rare in the auction landscape,” he said.
“Rajat Patidar is a key member of our squad. His exceptional talent and resilience have already made a significant impact on our team, and he truly embodies the spirit of RCB. We are excited to see him continue to develop and shine in the upcoming season,” the Zimbabwe legend added.
