IPL 2025: Rajat Patidar’s redemption arc ends in IPL glory for RCB

Rajat Patidar’s rise from a fringe player to a title-winning captain has been nothing short of inspirational. In his very first season as captain, Patidar led Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to their maiden IPL title in 2025, ending an 18-year-long wait for glory.

Also Read: IPL 2025: E Sala Cup Namde! RCB win maiden trophy, end 18-year title drought!

Patidar’s IPL journey began in 2021 when he was picked by RCB but managed just 71 runs in four games, leading to his release. Undeterred, he returned stronger in 2022 as a mid-season replacement and made headlines by scoring an unbeaten 112 in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants — the first-ever century by an uncapped player in IPL playoffs. He finished that season with 333 runs at an impressive average of 55.50.

In 2023, injury kept him out, but he bounced back in 2024 with 395 runs in 13 innings at a blazing strike rate of 177.13, including five half-centuries. His consistency and temperament earned him the captaincy in 2025, especially with Faf du Plessis not retained and Virat Kohli stepping back from leadership duties.

Under his calm and assertive leadership, RCB found balance and belief. Patidar’s own form, coupled with tactical clarity, played a pivotal role in RCB lifting their first-ever IPL trophy. His journey embodies resilience, making him not just a match-winner but now a legacy-maker.