Virat Kohli set to captain RCB in IPL 2025?

The Indian Premier League 2024 witnessed yet another heartbreak for Royal Challengers Bengaluru as they failed to win the title after suffering a loss at the hands of Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator. However, the upcoming IPL mega-auction in 2025 is an important opportunity for Royal Challengers Bengaluru to rebuild their team. Many commentators have given their opinion regarding RCB ahead of the IPL auction 2025, which included the name of the former Indian cricketer.

Former Indian cricketer and well-known commentator Aakash Chopra stated that Kohli, having been removed of his captaincy responsibilities for the national side, would have wanted to take the RCB leadership once more. This highlights the retention strategy employed by RCB.

Aakash Chopra said, “One guy to retain is Virat Kohli. Of course, he comes as the first retention and you need to keep Virat Kohli with you, both Bengaluru and Kohli believe that. So, I am seeing another three-year retention. For all we know, Virat Kohli might want to be the leader again, or else you have to go shopping for a leader.”

Chopra feels that Faf du Plessis may not be on the retention list due to some simple reasons as RCB will look for the future and Faf is not getting younger by the day. He further adds that this would be the moment where they have to think about the future and long-term.

Further, he said, “I feel Faf du Plessis might not be on the retention list for the simple reason that you are looking at a three-year future and Faf is not getting younger by the day. It’s a pivotal moment where you have to decide between immediate future and long-term gain. So Faf might be released there. I don’t think they would want to retain Glenn Maxwell at all. They will say tata bye-bye. Alzarri Joseph, Lockie Ferguson- tata bye-bye to everyone.”

Kohli's leadership qualities are unquestionable. His teammates have always been motivated by his aggressive batting approach and intense on-field presence. Kohli has a track record of success as an Indian captain and has done a decent job for RCB as their leader. However, under his direction, RCB hasn't been able to convert their star strength into an IPL championship, the veteran is an experienced campaigner and knows how to bring out the best of the players.