In a major development for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, Virat Kohli is set to reclaim his position as captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Kohli, who led RCB from 2013 to 2021, has reportedly discussed his comeback to the leadership role with RCB’s management.
Leadership Vacuum
The decision comes at a time when there is a leadership vacuum in the RCB camp. Faf du Plessis, who led the franchise in the last cycle (2022-24), is 40 years old, and there is speculation that he may be released as the franchise considers a shift in leadership.
Virat Kohli’s Previous Tenure
During his previous tenure, Kohli guided RCB to four playoff appearances and came agonizingly close to winning the IPL title in 2016, only to lose to Sunrisers Hyderabad in the finals. Despite stepping down from the captaincy in 2021, Kohli has remained a key player and a de facto leader in the setup.
Mega Auction and Strategy
With the mega auction approaching, RCB is looking to fill crucial gaps in their squad. Kohli’s return as captain is seen as a strategic move to end the franchise’s title drought. The franchise hopes that Kohli’s leadership and experience will bring them closer to winning their first IPL trophy.
🚨 CAPTAIN KOHLI IS BACK…!!! 🚨
Virat Kohli set to return as RCB captain in IPL 2025. (Sahil Malhotra/TOI). pic.twitter.com/QaaG2wazbP
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 30, 2024
Kohli’s Commitment
Kohli has expressed his commitment to playing for RCB until his last game in the IPL. He has stated, “I will continue to be an RCB player till I play my last game in the IPL. But it’s been a great journey of nine years of joy, frustration, moments of happiness and sadness, and I just want to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart for supporting me and believing in me relentlessly and unconditionally.”
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