Out front stood Rajat Patidar, lifting words towards Virat Kohli like thanks shaped in silence. His bat had carved past five hundred runs, yet what moved him came not from numbers but quiet talks mid-season. A nudge here, a thought there, Virat Kohli’s presence thinned the noise around big moments.
Facing fast bowlers felt different, sharper somehow, after those conversations took root. Captaincy, too, found firmer ground under his feet when advice arrived without fanfare. Not loud, never forced – the influence curled into habits instead of speeches. RCB lifted silver again; two years now stacking success like steady breaths. What grew louder wasn’t celebration but understanding, built between overs, across shared glances.
“I always try to identify areas where I can improve, particularly against fast bowlers. Kohli bhai has given me a lot of ideas and technical inputs. What stands out even more is how he is always available for the team. He makes young players feel comfortable and approaches them even when they are hesitant or nervous,” Patidar said.
Rajat Patidar credits Kohli’s guidance as RCB retain IPL crown
Back at the stadium where RCB won before, Rajat Patidar felt echoes of last season swirl in. Yet each moment now demands attention all its own.
“It feels amazing. There were a lot of memories from last year, but we had to remain in the moment. I don’t have enough words to describe this feeling, but it feels really special,” he said.
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Heading into the final, the team stuck to a clear strategy, Patidar said, thinking pursuit would suit the pitch better. RCB’s bowlers earned their respect, showing steady form across the entire season.
“Our plan was very clear because we felt chasing would be easier. We wanted to remove the Gujarat Titans’ top three early. Our bowlers have been outstanding all season. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Dar, Krunal Pandya and Romario Shepherd have all contributed brilliantly,” he said.
A surprise selection pulled Patidar into RCB’s fold four winters back, making him delay his marriage plans. Not long after stepping in for injured Sisodia, he began carving out a steady role within the squad. Over time, his presence grew less about chance, more about consistency. Then came the twist, handed leadership just before 2025 tipped into view, marking trust few saw coming. His path, quiet shifts leading to loud outcomes.
“I never imagined that I would win two IPL titles with RCB. It’s all written somewhere. Last year, there was a lot of pressure, but this season we were more confident. Everyone was in a much better frame of mind, and my preparation before the tournament was also very good,” Rajat Patidar said.
Once more, the trophy belongs to us, said RCB’s captain in Kannada while closing his note to supporters. His words carried quiet confidence – “Ee salanoo cup namdu.” Fans heard it loud. A familiar promise echoed through the message.
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