As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season dawns, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stand at the cusp of a new era under the captaincy of Rajat Patidar, announced on February 13, 2025.
With the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium ready to roar, the spotlight shines not only on the established stars but also on three players who could redefine their careers and Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s fortunes—Jitesh Sharma, Devdutt Padikkal, and Rasikh Dar.
Here Are 3 Players Who Can Shine Under RCB’s New Captain Rajat Patidar
Each carries a unique story of redemption, resurgence, and potential, poised to thrive under Patidar’s strategic leadership.
This season promises not just cricket but a narrative of transformation, where these players might emerge as the game-changers Royal Challengers Bengaluru has long awaited.
Jitesh Sharma, the INR 11 crore buy from the IPL auction, finds himself at a critical juncture in his career.
The pressure of such a high price tag can be daunting, a fact that Rajat Patidar, now captain and similarly priced, understands well.
Sharma, who previously played for Punjab Kings, had a forgettable IPL 2024 season, scoring only 187 runs in 14 matches with an average that left much to be desired.
The move to Royal Challengers Bengaluru offers him a chance to reset and prove his worth.
Under Patidar’s captaincy, Jitesh might find the mentorship and environment to rebuild his confidence.
Patidar’s leadership style, known for its composure and strategic depth, could be exactly what Sharma needs to not just recover from last season’s lows but to shine as RCB’s wicketkeeper-batter.
It’s a narrative of redemption, where Jitesh’s aggressive batting and sharp glove work could become integral to RCB’s strategy, especially in the high-pressure games.
Devdutt Padikkal’s return to RCB is like a homecoming with a mission.
Having kickstarted his IPL career with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, his performance last season with Lucknow Super Giants was far from stellar, with only 38 runs in seven games.
Now, back in familiar territory, Padikkal has the chance to reclaim his glory days.
His previous record at Royal Challengers Bengaluru speaks volumes – 884 runs in 29 innings at an impressive strike rate, adorned with six half-centuries and a century.
Padikkal’s journey back to RCB isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about proving that his talent wasn’t a fluke but a consistent force.
Under Patidar, who himself has risen through the ranks with determination, Padikkal might find the perfect blend of freedom and structure to express his batting prowess.
This could be the season where Padikkal not only turns his form around but also becomes a pivotal player in RCB’s batting lineup, potentially opening or batting in the top order to set or chase down totals.
Rasikh Dar‘s move from Delhi Capitals to RCB brings an exciting prospect to the bowling attack.
His performance in the 2024 IPL season was a testament to his ability to take crucial wickets, a skill set that could flourish under Patidar’s strategic captaincy.
Dar’s raw pace and variations could be the missing piece in RCB’s puzzle, especially in the powerplay and death overs.
Patidar, with his deep understanding of the game’s nuances from his domestic cricket days, might just be the captain to harness Dar’s potential fully.
This could mean tailored strategies for different phases of the game, where Dar’s role is maximised to break partnerships or to close out innings.
His journey from Delhi to Bangalore might just be the catalyst he needs to step up as one of the league’s promising young bowlers, aiming to make headlines with his wicket-taking abilities.
In this new chapter for RCB, the story isn’t just about individual performances but about how these players gel under Patidar’s leadership.
Jitesh Sharma’s redemption, Devdutt Padikkal’s resurgence, and Rasikh Dar’s rise could collectively define RCB’s campaign in IPL 2025.
Patidar’s approach, focusing on player development and strategic gameplay, might provide these players with the platform to not just perform but excel.
The synergy between a captain who understands the pressures of high expectations and players who are eager to prove themselves could lead to a season where these three become not just part of the team but part of its heartbeat.
As fans and followers of RCB gear up for what could be a transformative season, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on these three players.
Their journey under Patidar could be one of the most compelling narratives of IPL 2025, where each match could be an opportunity for them to showcase their evolution, resilience, and contribution to the team’s quest for glory.
In essence, Rajat Patidar’s captaincy might just be the catalyst these players need to shine, turning RCB into not just a team to watch but one to reckon with in the IPL.
