Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar (Image credit: BCCI/IPL)

NEW DELHI: Star India batter Virat Kohli has thrown his full support behind Royal Challengers Bengaluru‘s (RCB) newly-appointed captain, Rajat Patidar, calling him the future leader of the franchise. Kohli, the face of RCB since the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008 and their captain for more than a decade, expressed his confidence in Patidar’s ability to take the team forward.
Speaking at RCB’s Unbox event on Monday, Kohli addressed the loyal fans of the franchise with words of encouragement for Patidar.
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“The guy who is going to come next is the guy who’s going to lead you for a long time. So, give him all the love you can. He’s an amazing talent; he’s a great player; we have all seen that. He has got a great head on his shoulders, and he will do a great job for this amazing franchise and take the team forward. He has got everything that’s required,” Kohli said with conviction.
Patidar, who has succeeded South African star Faf du Plessis as RCB captain, has earned high praise from Kohli, who remains hopeful that the franchise will finally clinch its maiden IPL title. Despite being one of the most popular teams in the league, RCB have never lifted the coveted trophy.

“It feels amazing to be back. The excitement and happiness is like every other season. I have been here for 18 years and absolutely love RCB. We have an amazing squad this time around. A lot of talent in the team. I am personally very excited about this season,” Kohli added.
Patidar also expressed his gratitude and determination to live up to the expectations.
“Legends like Virat bhai, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle have played for RCB. I grew up watching them. From the start, I have loved the franchise a lot. I am more happy that I got a new role to lead one of the biggest teams in T20 cricket,” said Patidar, who has also donned the Indian jersey.