Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have entrusted Rajat Patidar with the captaincy for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, a decision that has garnered support from teammate Jitesh Sharma.
While names like Jitesh and Krunal Pandya might have been considered for the leadership role, RCB ultimately chose Patidar to succeed Faf du Plessis, handing him the task of achieving what no previous captain has—securing RCB’s maiden IPL title.
In an exclusive conversation with CricXtasy, Jitesh revealed that he never saw himself as a captaincy candidate and fully supports the franchise’s decision.
“No, I never thought about it [captaincy]. Frankly speaking, I never even considered that I was being looked at for captaincy. If I were in RCB management, I would have chosen Rajat too—he deserves it. He is RCB’s guy and has done service for them for years now. I just joined now,” Jitesh stated.
“I can help as a senior since Rajat and I both belong to the Central Zone and have played cricket together. We already have a strong bond. And all the Indian players in RCB will support him as well,” he added.
RCB acquired Jitesh for a staggering INR 11 crore in the mega auction, marking a 550% increase from his previous IPL contract. His extensive domestic cricket experience made him a potential leadership candidate, especially after he guided Madhya Pradesh to the final of the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where they finished as runners-up to Mumbai.
However, RCB had already been grooming Patidar for this role. His leadership skills and man-management abilities have been widely praised, and he was informed about this added responsibility last season. With a relatively new squad, Patidar has the opportunity to shape RCB’s approach for the upcoming IPL cycle.
For Jitesh, IPL 2025 is a crucial season. It presents a chance for him to revive his international career while contributing both on and off the field. Though he won’t wear the captain’s armband, he will be part of RCB’s leadership group and is expected to play a key role with the bat.
With Patidar at the helm and experienced players like Jitesh lending support, RCB will hope to turn a new page in their quest for IPL glory.
