Rajat Patidar, leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru into their fourth IPL final, has made it crystal clear that the team is on a mission to finally clinch the title—this time for Virat Kohli. Though Kohli stepped down as captain after IPL 2021, his influence remains unmatched within the RCB camp.
For nearly two decades, Kohli has been the face of the franchise, earning immense respect from teammates and fans alike for his unwavering loyalty and consistent performances. Now, with RCB reaching the IPL final after a long gap of nine years, Rajat Patidar spoke from the heart, dedicating their campaign to the former skipper. “We will try and win this for him,” Patidar said ahead of the clash against Punjab Kings. “He has done so well for India and RCB over the years.”
Handling Pressure with Purpose
RCB’s past attempts in the finals—three in total—have ended in disappointment. But Patidar, who has taken charge with composure and tactical sharpness, believes this is their moment to rewrite history. Despite the high stakes, he remains grounded in his approach. “Expectations come naturally, especially when you’re leading a team like RCB in a final, but I always focus on what’s in my control and try to stay in the present,” he said.
The young captain has already showcased leadership maturity during crucial phases of the tournament, turning pressure situations into opportunities. “This captaincy journey has been a great learning experience for me,” he added. As RCB gears up to face PBKS in a high-stakes final, Patidar’s calm demeanour could be key to finally breaking their title jinx.
The Power of Fan Support and the Kohli Factor
One of the most remarkable aspects of RCB’s journey has been its unmatched fan following. Virat Kohli’s star power has not only lifted the team on the field but also brought them loyal support across venues. Patidar acknowledged the impact of this support, saying, “Wherever we go, we feel that the crowd is a home ground for us and (given) the way they are showing support and love over the last many years.”
That unwavering backing has helped the team maintain belief, especially during tough phases. While Punjab Kings took the first match of the season between the two, RCB fought back with dominant performances, including a key win in Qualifier 1. However, the final promises to be a different test altogether, with both teams eyeing their first-ever IPL title.
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